In a profound display of solidarity and compassion, the United Kingdom Chapter of the All Progressives Congress (APC) paid a formal condolence visit to the APC National Secretariat in Abuja. This heartfelt gesture followed the recent passing of several prominent and dedicated party members whose efforts significantly shaped the party’s development across various levels.
The visit, led by Dr. Olusegun Adebayo, Chairman of the APC UK Chapter, took place earlier this week and served as both a mourning ritual and a reaffirmation of the unity that binds the party’s local and international branches. The APC UK delegation was warmly received by the national leadership, including top executives and key stakeholders.
A Gesture of Solidarity
Speaking at the gathering, Dr. Adebayo emphasized the emotional weight of the visit and the chapter’s intention to stand in unity with the party during this challenging period.
“We came here today to share in the grief of our brothers and sisters in Nigeria,” he said. “We mourn the loss of those who gave so much to the APC and to the Nigerian political landscape. These individuals were not just colleagues—they were family. Their dedication, sacrifice, and patriotism are legacies that will live on.”
Dr. Adebayo further noted that the APC UK Chapter sees itself not as a distant extension of the party, but as an integral part of the APC’s evolving story. According to him, diaspora members are deeply invested in the party’s growth and continue to contribute to its mission of national unity, prosperity, and democratic progress.
The Loss That Sparked the Visit
The identities of the departed members were honored with deep reverence. While the chapter chose not to disclose all names publicly out of respect for families, it was clear that these were individuals who had left a significant mark on the APC through years of active engagement and advocacy.
In particular, the deceased were remembered for their work in grassroots mobilization, policy advocacy, and capacity building—areas critical to the party’s electoral successes and operational strength. The loss has not only affected the local Nigerian branches but has also left a noticeable void among APC supporters in the diaspora.
Remembering the Departed
One of the most moving moments during the visit was a solemn minute of silence observed in honor of the deceased. The room fell quiet as both the UK delegation and national party leaders bowed their heads in remembrance. Candles were lit in a symbolic tribute to the lives and legacies of the late members.
Mrs. Folake Ogunluyi, Secretary of the APC UK Chapter, delivered a heartfelt eulogy on behalf of the delegation.
“These were people who gave their all for a cause bigger than themselves,” she said. “They organized, they built bridges, they opened doors for others, and they never wavered in their belief in Nigeria and in the APC. They were more than political figures—they were mentors, visionaries, and community leaders.”
Mrs. Ogunluyi also shared personal anecdotes that highlighted the deep camaraderie shared within the diaspora chapter. Her words evoked visible emotion from those in attendance and underscored the profound loss felt across the APC family.
Reaffirming Commitment to the APC Mission
Despite the somber tone of the visit, the APC UK Chapter took the opportunity to reaffirm its commitment to the party’s ideals and future. Dr. Adebayo assured the national leadership that the chapter would continue to uphold the party’s core values and actively participate in efforts to strengthen its structure, both at home and abroad.
He noted that the APC’s success is intertwined with the strength of its global community and emphasized the importance of diaspora engagement in the political process.
“We in the diaspora are just as invested in the future of Nigeria as those on the ground,” Dr. Adebayo stated. “Our chapter will continue to be a resource for policy advocacy, international outreach, and grassroots mobilization. We are proud to be part of this great party and will do all we can to honor the memory of our departed members by carrying forward the work they started.”
National Leadership Responds
In response, Senator Abdullahi Adamu, National Chairman of the APC, expressed his gratitude for the UK Chapter’s thoughtful visit. He praised their consistency in supporting the party’s goals and highlighted the importance of such moments in fostering deeper connections across the party’s global network.
“This is a time of mourning, but it is also a time to reflect on the values that define us,” Senator Adamu said. “Unity, perseverance, and service to the nation—these are the cornerstones of the APC, and today, you have reminded us of the power of these principles.”
Senator Adamu went on to highlight how the APC’s diaspora arms—especially in countries like the UK—play a vital role in amplifying Nigeria’s democratic image abroad and in contributing intellectual capital to the party’s strategy development.
Building a Stronger Future
The meeting concluded with both parties agreeing on the importance of continued collaboration. There were discussions about future programs aimed at enhancing diaspora involvement in electoral processes, policy formulation, and investment in Nigeria’s democratic institutions.
Dr. Adebayo proposed several initiatives, including youth mentorship programs, cross-continental political dialogues, and a memorial scholarship fund in honor of the deceased party members. These proposals were warmly received by the national leadership, who pledged to explore avenues for implementation.
A Lasting Legacy
The visit by the APC UK Chapter may have been rooted in grief, but it also stood as a beacon of hope and unity. It demonstrated that in times of loss, the strength of a political organization lies in its ability to come together and support one another—regardless of geography.
The national leadership commended the UK delegation for their unwavering commitment and reiterated the party’s resolve to keep the memories of its fallen members alive through continued service to the nation.
As the delegation departed the APC headquarters, it was evident that their visit had not only brought comfort but also served to inspire a renewed sense of purpose. In honoring the departed, the APC UK Chapter has reaffirmed its dedication to the ideals that brought them all together: progress, unity, and unwavering belief in a better Nigeria.
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