Popular entertainer Obinna Simon, widely known as MC Tagwaye, has defected to the Social Democratic Party (SDP), citing disillusionment with the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC).
Tagwaye, a former member of the APC presidential campaign team during the 2023 general elections, follows in the footsteps of former Kaduna State Governor Nasir el-Rufai, who also recently exited the APC for the SDP.
In a statement personally signed on Friday, the comedian explained that his decision stemmed from a conviction that the APC had strayed from its founding principles and no longer prioritized the welfare and progress of Nigerians.
He expressed dissatisfaction with the party’s lack of a reward system for loyal members, its gerontocratic leadership structure, and economic policies that, according to him, have exacerbated hardship for low-income earners.
“After months of intense consultation and introspection, I, Obinna Simon, aka MC Tagwaye, have made the bold decision to resign my membership of the APC and join the Social Democratic Party (SDP),” he stated.
“I have formally submitted my resignation to my ward chairman, marking the end of my association with the party. I urge all Nigerians who share my vision to join me on this journey.”
Tagwaye criticized the APC’s internal operations, alleging that its democratic processes had been hijacked by a select group of power brokers who dictate the party’s direction while sidelining the voices and aspirations of the majority.