Former deputy campaign manager of the Obi-Datti presidential campaign, Isaac Balami, has disclosed the reasons behind his decision to leave the Obidient Movement and return to the All Progressives Congress, stating that he could not continue with a platform where he believed there was “no future.”
In an interview on ARISE NEWS, the aviation entrepreneur and philanthropist said his initial departure from the APC in 2022 was influenced by concerns over the party’s Muslim-Muslim presidential ticket, as well as what he described as the marginalisation of Christians and minority ethnic groups. However, he said the policies and actions of President Bola Tinubu’s administration had changed his earlier perception and addressed some of the issues that led to his exit.
“I just left because there was a reason why I left the APC—two major reasons. I am a Christian from Borno State… But why should I remain in a place where I see no future, when the person I castigated, insulted and fought has proven me wrong?” Balami said.
Balami, a prominent APC member, rejected suggestions that his decision amounted to a betrayal of the Obidient Movement, explaining that his return to the ruling party was based on personal conviction rather than any expectation of political benefits.
He criticised the Labour Party’s organisational capacity during the 2023 presidential election, arguing that the party did not develop a strong enough structure to safeguard its votes. He specifically pointed to what he described as inadequate numbers of polling agents and insufficient electoral documents required to effectively pursue its legal challenge.
The former Obi-Datti campaign official said that despite making substantial personal contributions to the campaign, he did not see enough commitment from the Labour Party towards improving its electoral framework and strengthening its chances.
Balami also commended Tinubu’s administration, claiming that it had provided more fairness and inclusion for minority ethnic groups than previous governments since Nigeria returned to democratic rule in 1999. He highlighted local government autonomy, fuel subsidy reforms and broader participation of minority communities as some of the reasons behind his renewed support for the APC.
He maintained that his return to the party was not influenced by the search for government appointments or contracts, noting that he had not received any such benefits since rejoining the APC. Instead, he said his decision was based on his assessment of the administration’s reforms and its willingness to address the concerns that previously pushed him away.
Balami further stated that political decisions should not be guided by resentment, adding that it was acceptable to acknowledge when an opponent had changed one’s perspective and to collaborate in the interest of national development.
