President Muhammadu Buhari has received the Governor of Zamfara State, Bello Matawalle, and his Cross River State counterpart, Ben Ayade, at the State House in Abuja on Monday.
Both governors recently dumped the main opposition, the Peoples Democratic Party for the ruling All Progressives Congress.
Buhari said Nigerians would respect both Governors for defecting to the All Progressives Congress, APC.
Buhari handed the flags of the party to the two Governors and raised their hands aloft as a sign of welcoming them into the party.
“This is one of the happiest times for us in this party. For you to have the courage to leave your consistencies speak a lot. I wish Nigerians will reflect about it.
“I congratulate you for leaving your consistencies for our great party. We lost many states at the last election, which is unusual for a ruling party. But we did it to prove that we are a tolerant group. We wanted to demonstrate that we respect individuals.
“We emphasized that we respect our people. That was why we insisted on free and fair elections. Leaders should show honesty and respect for their followers.”
He said: “To be principled and identify your objectives is a great quality that should endear us to our people. Your people will respect you more for having the courage to come to APC at your own time. Nobody forced you, but you believe it is the best way to serve your people. I value your decision.”
