YPP Remains Strong After Ifeanyi Ubah’s Death, Avoids Joining APC

The National Chairman of the Young Progressives Party (YPP), Bishop Amakiri, stated that the party is not merging with the All Progressives Congress (APC).

Speaking to reporters in Abuja during the ratification of the party’s candidates by its leadership, Amakiri addressed the perception that the YPP has struggled to attract prominent political figures following the death of Senator Ifeanyi Ubah.

He dismissed rumors of a planned merger with the APC, saying, “Perhaps that is merely media speculation. To the best of my knowledge, there has been no such discussion. I do not even know of any APC member who has approached us with such a proposal.”

“Besides, why would the YPP collapse its structure into the APC? What exactly has the APC done differently that would make such a move attractive to us? As for the presidential election, I am not focused on the candidates of other political parties,” he added.

Regarding Senator Ubah’s death, Amakiri noted, “It would be unfair to say that Senator Ifeanyi Ubah’s passing did not affect the party. It certainly did. However, to suggest that his death ended the party’s fortunes would be incorrect.”

“The party remains focused and on course. Since Senator Ubah’s demise, there has not been a general election through which the party’s strength can be fully assessed. Therefore, it would be premature to conclude that the YPP has lost its grip.”

He acknowledged Ubah’s significant contribution, stating, “There is no doubt that Senator Ubah was a political force and a team player who gave the party significant visibility and prominence.”

“Much of what the party enjoys today stems from the impact of his electoral victory. If he had not won that election, perhaps we would not be discussing the YPP at this level today.”

“The good thing, however, is that we have consolidated on those gains and continued to make inroads into Nigeria’s political landscape. We miss him greatly, but I believe that wherever he is, he would be proud of the role he played in the history and growth of the YPP.”

He added, “The YPP remains one of the parties to watch in the forthcoming 2027 general elections. We are focused, and I can assure Nigerians that the party has a lot to offer. We have positive ideas, policies, and programmes that can move the country forward.”

“I am focused on the presidential candidate of the Young Progressives Party. By the grace of God, we will nominate a candidate who will offer Nigerians a credible alternative.”