The All Progressives Congress (APC) is facing renewed political tension after one of its spokespersons made a fiery statement accusing the African Democratic Congress (ADC) of poaching high-profile members. Referencing former Kaduna State governor Nasir El-Rufai, ex-Rivers State governor Rotimi Amaechi, and ex-Attorney-General Abubakar Malami, the spokesman asked: "The ADC took El-Rufai from us, they took Rotimi Amaechi from us, they took Malami from us and you want us not to put sand in their garri?" The metaphor, likening political sabotage to contaminating garri, quickly went viral on social media. The comment, shared in a video clip circulating online, has drawn mixed reactions, with some calling it an open admission of political dirty play. While the APC has not officially confirmed the statement, the spokesperson's words have amplified scrutiny over inter-party movements ahead of future elections. Online users mocked and criticised the analogy, with one commenting, "I like the word 'frolicking' with the ADC," while another noted, "This is a big shame. Is this how other climes play politics?" The controversy underscores the growing unease around political loyalty and ethical conduct in Nigeria's party system.
The APC spokesman's garri metaphor lays bare the pettiness now masquerading as strategy in Nigerian politics. When defections are met with threats of sabotage instead of policy debates, it's clear the game has become more about score-settling than governance. This isn't chess — it's petty stew.
