Hon. Sulaiman Bakari, a prominent Taraba youth leader and politician, has announced his return to the All Progressives Congress (APC), describing it as a “homecoming guided by renewed conviction and faith in the leadership of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR.”
Bakari, who made the announcement in a statement personally signed by him on Friday in Jalingo, said his decision followed what he called the “new wave of reforms, stability, and inclusiveness” under the Tinubu administration and the APC’s new National Chairman, Prof. Nentawe Yilwatda Goshwe.
“When I left the APC in 2022, it was never out of bitterness or rebellion. It was a principled decision born out of frustration with the imposition of candidates and erosion of internal democracy,” Bakari said.
He added that the APC, under President Tinubu, had been “reborn, focused, disciplined, and reconnected with its founding ideals,” noting that the Renewed Hope Agenda had restored public confidence in governance.
Bakari, who previously contested for the House of Representatives seat for Jalingo/Yorro/Zing Federal Constituency, said his return was driven by collective interest and strategic alignment for the development of Taraba State.
“Taraba has remained in the opposition for too long, and our people have suffered for it. The dividends of democracy flow through cooperation with the center, and President Tinubu has shown unmatched readiness to support states and constituencies that align with his Renewed Hope vision,” he stated.
He disclosed that his personal relationship with President Tinubu dated back to 2008, saying it was both a duty and responsibility to support the President’s developmental efforts.
Bakari, however, commended the leadership of the New Nigeria People’s Party (NNPP) in Taraba for their understanding and support during his time in the party.
“I remain grateful to the NNPP leadership and members who gave me their platform and support. My decision to return to the APC is not out of disillusionment, but a strategic choice in the larger interest of Taraba State,” he said.
The APC chieftain also praised the new National Chairman, Prof. Nentawe Goshwe, describing him as a patriot and democrat whose emergence had brought fairness, discipline, and inclusivity to the party.
According to him, the restructuring of the APC in Taraba under its current leadership has restored harmony and created the right environment for credible politics and collaboration with the Federal Government.
Bakari called on all political leaders in the state, including the governor, to consider strategic partnership with the APC-led Federal Government, as other governors have done.
Reaffirming his commitment to effective representation, Bakari said his political ambition was anchored on service to the people rather than personal gain.
“My ambition to serve my people remains alive — not for personal glory, but to give voice to my people and ensure Taraba’s place in the national development agenda,” he said.
He pledged full support for President Tinubu’s administration and urged his supporters and associates to strengthen the APC ahead of the 2027 general elections.
“I am back home in the APC — not for myself, but for my people, for progress, and for the Renewed Hope of a greater Nigeria,” he declared.
