Former senator and media entrepreneur Ben Murray-Bruce has officially joined the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), citing confidence in President Bola Tinubu’s economic and governance reforms.
Murray-Bruce, who represented Bayelsa East in the Senate from 2015 to 2019 under the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), made the announcement on social media Wednesday.
His defection coincided with that of Bayelsa State Governor Douye Diri, who also declared his defection from PDP same day.
In statement, Murray-Bruce explained that his decision was motivated not by politics but by a belief in Tinubu’s vision for Nigeria’s future.
“I have known President Asiwaju Bola Tinubu since 1998. I know the man’s mind, his courage, and his conviction.
“He is not driven by applause; he is driven by results, ” he wrote.
He described Tinubu’s reforms as “painful but necessary,” and highlighted several areas of progress, including improved security, economic stabilization, and infrastructure development.
“For the first time in our nation’s history, we have a President who truly understands finance.
”The painful reforms we face today are the very foundation of tomorrow’s prosperity, ” added.
Murray-Bruce pointed to reforms such as fuel subsidy removal and currency stabilization as crucial steps toward building a “free-market economy that rewards hard work and innovation.”
The former lawmaker, known for his “common sense” advocacy and media presence, also praised Tinubu’s appointments and approach to governance, particularly in national security and economic policy.
“Insecurity is being quietly and systematically dismantled. The Central Bank is stabilising the economy, rebuilding confidence, and restoring the dignity of the naira, ” he stated.
Murray-Bruce emphasised the administration’s foreign policy strides and infrastructure projects, describing them as “the arteries through which growth and opportunity now flow.”
Despite current economic hardships faced by many Nigerians, Murray-Bruce urged patience and belief in the administration’s long-term vision.
According to him, I know it is still a difficult season for many families. But it is in these moments of sacrifice that nations are reborn.
Announcing his defection, he stated clearly:“Today, I am joining the All Progressives Congress (APC), not for politics, but for progress. I believe that Bola Tinubu’s leadership, guided by courage and intellect, will deliver the Nigeria we have all dreamed of.”
“Mark my words: in the full term of eight years, Nigeria will witness phenomenal growth.
”I choose to stand with that vision. I choose to stand with reform. I choose to stand with the future.”
Murray-Bruce’s defection added to a growing list of high-profile opposition figures crossing over to the APC, amid an ongoing political realignment across Nigeria.
