In response to the recent meeting between the president-elect and the presidential candidate of the NNPP in Paris, which has caused controversy within the party, the APC has come forward to defend the alliance. Senator Ayo Arise, an APC stalwart, emphasized that reaching out to members of the opposition party, particularly those who are considered friendly, is a normal part of politics. He highlighted the strategic importance of states like Kano and Lagos and the need to ensure they remain under the control of the ruling party. Arise also mentioned that the president-elect may be rewarding those who directly supported him during the election. Another party chieftain, Senator Gbenga Kaka, expressed the view that politics allows for free entry and existence, and if Kwankwaso wants to join the APC and establish a working alliance, it should be welcomed. However, he cautioned against disregarding the contributions of existing party members and urged for inclusivity in government administration.
Senator Arise underscored the importance of reaching out to opposition members, especially in crucial states like Kano and Lagos. He noted that leaving these states in the hands of the opposition would be detrimental. Regarding Ganduje’s concerns, Arise suggested that the president-elect’s engagement with Kwankwaso may be a way to acknowledge and reward those who supported him during the election. He reassured that Kwankwaso’s entry into the APC would not change the election result but could serve as preparation for future endeavors. Arise emphasized the need for the APC to maintain unity and ensure a smooth transition for the party in the future.
 Senator Kaka acknowledged that he does not hold any official position within the party but stressed the importance of inclusivity in political parties. He recognized that political affiliations in Nigeria often lack ideological orientations and that people frequently switch parties. Kaka emphasized that if Kwankwaso wishes to join the APC and establish a working alliance, it should be welcomed, as long as the inclusion of new members does not undermine the contributions of existing party members. He warned that neglecting those who worked hard for the party could disrupt the party structure and cause disconnection among members. Kaka urged for a balanced approach that accommodates new members while valuing the efforts of existing party loyalists.
The APC has come forward to defend the alliance between Tinubu and Kwankwaso, stating that reaching out to opposition members is a normal aspect of politics. They emphasized the strategic importance of key states like Kano and Lagos and the need to maintain control over them. Party members highlighted the significance of inclusivity, urging that the inclusion of new members should not come at the expense of disregarding the contributions of existing party loyalists. By emphasizing unity and stability, the APC aims to ensure a smooth transition and future success for the party.