Barrister Gyang Zi (SAN), the 2023 Labour Party candidate for Plateau North Senatorial District, has defected to the All Progressives Congress (APC). His decision followed consultations with his supporters via online platforms created during his campaign, where the majority urged him to join the ruling party.
Supporters claimed Zi was unfairly treated in the Labour Party despite his popularity. They alleged he was sidelined for lacking a political godfather. Feeling more accepted in the APC, he joined the party with full commitment.
While declaring his defection at the APC secretariat in Kalwa House, Zi said the move followed careful consultation with allies who believe in his leadership. He acknowledged the role of his team and past candidates from the six LGAs who supported him.
Zi emphasized that his move to the APC is not for personal gain but to contribute to the party’s growth at both grassroots and national levels. He promised to serve with integrity and help strengthen the APC ahead of 2027.
“I assure you I will not fail in my responsibilities of growing and supporting this party by God’s grace,” he stated to loud applause.
Zi appreciated the support of APC leaders in Nigeria and the diaspora, especially Dr. Bernard Doro, Director of Finance APC UK, and others who encouraged his transition. He said their backing reflects the party’s unity and strength.
Plateau APC Chairman Hon. Rufus Bature welcomed Zi, describing him as a young man at the peak of his profession. He said Zi’s move would help advance President Tinubu’s renewed hope agenda and boost the APC’s presence in Plateau North.
Bature likened Tinubu’s reforms to a painful but necessary surgery and called for patience, assuring that the intentions were for Nigeria’s good. He expressed confidence in ongoing efforts to address insecurity in the state.
He also assured Zi of equal treatment within the APC, encouraging him to help rebuild the party in Plateau North. Bature described the defection as a strategic move and invited others to follow suit.
Among those who accompanied Zi were Dr. Bernard Dauda, APC Deputy Chairman UK; Dr. Bernard Doro, Director of Finance, APC UK; and Dr. Jasper Adeleye, Deputy Organizing Secretary, APC UK. Some former Labour Party candidates and PDP members from Plateau North also joined the APC.
Speaking on behalf of APC UK, Dr. Bernard Doro praised efforts to build the party in the Northern Zone. He said Zi’s defection would bring lasting change and assured the party of their full support and loyalty.
