‘APC Is in Your DNA’: Gov Sule Lightheartedly Woos Adamawa Governor Fintiri to Ruling Party

There was a moment of light political drama on Monday when the Governor of Nasarawa State, Abdullahi Sule, openly teased his Adamawa State counterpart, Ahmadu Umaru Fintiri, with an invitation to join the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC).

The remarks were made during the public presentation of a book titled “Fintiri, the Man They Could Not Stop,” an event organized in honour of Governor Fintiri’s political journey and leadership. The gathering attracted political leaders, party loyalists, and dignitaries from across the country, creating a lively atmosphere that mixed celebration with subtle political messaging.

While addressing the audience, Governor Sule, a prominent APC figure, jokingly suggested that Fintiri’s political orientation already aligned with the ruling party. He revealed that he had come prepared with a symbolic gift — a cap branded with President Bola Tinubu’s signature insignia — in case the Adamawa governor was considering defecting to the APC.

“You have the APC in your DNA. We are on the same page with you. I even brought a Tinubu infinity cap in case you are thinking of joining the APC,” Sule said, drawing laughter and applause from attendees.

Although delivered humorously, Sule’s remarks carried clear political undertones, reflecting the broader pattern of political realignments currently taking place across Nigeria. In recent months, several high-profile defections and cross-party movements have fueled speculation about further shifts ahead of future elections.

Building on this theme, Sule referenced what he described as ongoing “political expeditions” to various states, where APC leaders have been strengthening alliances or welcoming defectors.

“Your Excellency, you have seen us going to Delta, Enugu, Rivers, Bayelsa, Akwa Ibom, Kano, Plateau and Taraba. And who knows, this may be another expedition I’m embarking on,” he added, further energizing the audience.

However, Sule soon struck a more reflective tone, moving away from partisan banter to speak about the realities of leadership. As a second-term governor, he shared insights into the pressures and responsibilities that come with executive office, particularly at the subnational level.

“On a more serious note, my brother, as a governor in my second term, I understand the weight of leadership. I understand the loneliness that comes with making difficult decisions, and I understand the courage it takes to govern with conviction under constant pressure,” Sule said.

He emphasized that leadership is often misunderstood by the public, noting that tough decisions are rarely popular but are sometimes necessary for long-term development and stability.

According to the Nasarawa governor, effective leadership should be anchored on integrity, purpose, and service rather than the pursuit of approval or political advantage.

“Leadership is not about popularity at all costs. It is about clarity of purpose, consistency in service, patience, and the fear of God,” he said, addressing Fintiri directly.

The comments sparked mixed reactions across social media and political circles. While some observers interpreted Sule’s remarks as harmless banter between colleagues, others saw them as emblematic of Nigeria’s increasingly fluid party politics, where ideology often gives way to strategic positioning.

Critics argued that such moments highlight the excessive focus on political maneuvering at the expense of governance and development. Others questioned the tangible benefits of party defections, noting that many states continue to struggle with infrastructure deficits, unemployment, and social challenges regardless of party affiliation.

Supporters of the APC, however, viewed Sule’s comments as a reflection of the party’s growing influence and confidence, particularly following recent political realignments nationwide. They argued that broad-based political cooperation could enhance stability and accelerate development if matched with genuine governance reforms.

Governor Fintiri, a member of the opposition Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), did not publicly respond to Sule’s invitation during the event, maintaining a statesmanlike posture as the focus remained on the book presentation.

Ultimately, the episode underscored both the camaraderie and competition that define Nigeria’s political class — a space where humor, symbolism, and strategy often intersect, even at events meant to celebrate leadership and legacy.