South East stakeholders back Atiku on joining APC

Associates and political supporters of former VIce President Atiku Abubakar have backed him on a possible defection to the All Progressive Congress.
The backing followed the conclusion of the consultative meeting the former vice-president had with the stakeholders at Ikenga Hotel in Enugu, Enugu State.
A snap poll conducted at the end of the meeting showed that 64 per cent of those present at the meeting backed his defection to the APC, 31 per cent favoured the Peoples Democratic Movement, while only five per cent asked him to remain in the Peoples Democratic Party.
Abubakar, in his opening remarks, told participants at the meeting: “This is the most difficult political decision I will be taking.”
He, however, assured them that the decision he will take will be in the best interest of Nigeria.
He said: “I take your counsel and support seriously.
“But ultimately, the decision that I will take will be in the best interest of Nigeria.”
Abubakar recalled how he had been systematically shut out from the activities of the PDP, noting that he has been kept away from the Board of Trustees and caucus meetings of the PDP.
He added: “This is the only zone that I have seen so many women being active in the political process.
“I cannot take any political decision without consulting you because you are the source of my support in the South East zone.
“I intend it conclude this consultation before the end of the month so that we can begin the more difficult task of salvaging Nigeria.”
Abubakar recalled that he had been in the vanguard of alliance of political parties because he has always supported a two-party system.
He also noted his happiness with the success recorded by the promoters of the APC in building a viable opposition political party in the country.
He said: “Our country’s democracy and stability will be further enhanced when we have a two-party system.
“I am happy that today, this is evolving and will take shape in the years to come.
“In helping me take this decision, I want you to consider the interest of Nigeria, far above any other interest.”
Those present included, Hon. Phil Agbasi, Hon. Justice Eguh, Chief Ken Emechebe, Hon. Greg Eguh, Senator Julius Ucha, Ozo Ramsey Onyia, P.C. Agwu, Chief Theodora Obi and Chief Ify Ozoani.