The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) former House of Representatives candidate in Kwara State, Alhaji Mohammed Ajia Ibrahim, has formally announced his decision to join the All Progressives Congress (APC), citing conscience, patriotism and national duty as the driving forces behind his move.
In a statement made available to journalists on Monday, Ajia said his decision followed months of deep reflection, wide consultations and a careful examination of Nigeria’s current political and security realities.
Ajia said that he concluded after evaluating various political platforms that the APC currently offers the most realistic avenue for him to contribute meaningfully to Nigeria’s security and survival, particularly at a time the country is grappling with insurgency, banditry and other forms of criminality.
A former Police personnel turned politician also commended President Bola Tinubu for appointing General Christopher Musa as Chief of Defence Staff and later as Minister of Defence, describing the appointment as a reassuring signal of the administration’s seriousness in tackling the nation’s security challenges.
According to him, General Musa is a disciplined and professional officer who does not approach issues of insurgency and criminality with sentiment or bias, adding that the appointment strengthened his confidence in the present government’s commitment to addressing insecurity.
Drawing from his background and experience, Ajia said his understanding of Nigeria’s security challenges is based on practical engagement rather than theory, noting that years of neglect, manipulation and socio-economic hardship have pushed many young people into violence.
He stressed the need for a holistic approach that combines professionalism at the leadership level with meaningful grassroots engagement, particularly with the youth, as a pathway to ending insecurity in the country.
“I believe strongly that without engaging the younger generation with understanding and compassion, Nigeria cannot defeat insecurity,” he said.
Ajia further clarified that his decision to join the APC is not motivated by any intention to seek elective office or political appointment, disclosing that since his resignation from the Nigeria Police Force in 2017, he has not accepted any government appointment and has continued to serve the nation in his personal capacity.
He reaffirmed his readiness to support ongoing efforts to combat insurgency and insecurity using his knowledge of Nigeria’s security landscape, his professional experience and his grassroots connections.
The APC stalwart expressed optimism that with a combination of professional leadership at the top and community-based understanding at the grassroots, Nigeria can overcome its current security challenges.
