Ben Murray-Bruce defects to APC, citing Tinubu’s economic vision, financial discipline, and bold reforms as reasons for backing the president’s leadership
Ben Murray-Bruce defects to APC, declaring his support for President Bola Tinubu’s economic vision and describing the move as a decision for progress, not politics.
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The former senator representing Bayelsa East, known for his media and business background, made the announcement on Wednesday via his official X.com (formerly Twitter) handle, marking a significant shift from his previous alignment with the opposition Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).
“I am joining the All Progressives Congress (APC), not for politics, but for progress,” Murray-Bruce stated.
“Because I believe that Bola Tinubu’s leadership, guided by courage and intellect, will deliver the Nigeria we have all dreamed of.”
Praising President Tinubu’s reform agenda, Murray-Bruce lauded what he called a clear, disciplined economic direction — particularly in finance and deregulation.
“For the first time in our nation’s history, we have a President who truly understands finance,” he wrote.
“Who sees the economy not as a political slogan, but as a living organism that must be disciplined, deregulated, and allowed to breathe.”
The former lawmaker and Silverbird Group founder has been an outspoken figure in Nigerian politics, often advocating for innovation, transparency, and youth empowerment.
His alignment with Tinubu’s administration, he insisted, is not a political calculation but a faith in Nigeria’s future under current reforms.
Murray-Bruce acknowledged the hardships many Nigerians are currently facing but argued that such pain is often the price of meaningful reform.
He cited deregulation in the petroleum market, restructuring at the Central Bank, and free-market policies as steps in the right direction — all contributing to restored investor confidence and a strengthening naira.
“The painful reforms we face today are the very foundation of tomorrow’s prosperity,” he wrote.
“We are moving into a free-market economy that rewards hard work and innovation instead of dependency and distortion.”
He also pointed to Tinubu’s infrastructural agenda as further evidence of capable leadership, referencing the 700km Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway as a “transformative project” with national significance.
“I know it is still a difficult season for many families. But as history teaches, reform is never painless,” he added.
“It is in these moments of sacrifice that nations are reborn.”
Murray-Bruce’s defection comes amid a wider wave of defections across Nigeria’s political landscape, especially from the PDP to the ruling APC.
Recent movements include governors, lawmakers, and other senior party members, threatening to leave the PDP with just eight governors nationwide.
While critics might interpret Murray-Bruce’s move as opportunistic, the former senator insists it is driven by a long-term vision.
“I choose to stand with reform. I choose to stand with the future,” he wrote.
“I have known President Tinubu since 1998.
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He is not driven by applause, he is driven by results. And today, I can boldly say to you that he is on the right track.
Source: Read more at freelanews.com
Ibrahim Onipede is a journalist and contributor to Freelanews.com, covering news, public affairs, and human-interest stories.
