Bisi Akande, a former Governor of Osun State and the first interim Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), has emphasized the distinctions between the APC and the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).

Akande stated that the two political parties are not similar, pointing out their divergent backgrounds. According to him, the PDP emerged from a military-influenced governance system, while the APC originated from a foundation of discussions, opposition, examination, and review.

During an interview on Channels TV, the elder statesman explained, “Honestly, APC and PDP are not alike. They’re not alike because they’re coming from different backgrounds. The PDP is coming from the background of military incursion into governance.”

Akande further noted that the original leaders of the PDP were either soldiers who were reluctant to relinquish power or individuals associated with the military, such as contractors who had close ties to the military during their time in power.

In contrast, the APC emerged as a political force opposing the continuation of military-style governance. Akande described the military’s approach to governance as being characterized by impunity, where leaders operated based on their individual preferences without room for debate or collective decision-making.

He highlighted that civil administration requires a different approach, emphasizing the importance of constant debate and collective understanding. Akande stated that the APC was founded on the principles of discussion, opposition, examination, and review, with the aim of bringing diverse groups together to govern.

In summary, Akande underscored the contrasting backgrounds of the APC and the PDP, with the former emerging from opposition and a culture of dialogue, while the latter was rooted in military governance and a mentality shaped by the military’s command structure.