Shekarau and Gwarzo Officially Join APC, Citing PDP Collapse and APC's Strength
In a significant political realignment, former Governor of Kano, Mal. Ibrahim Shekarau, and former Senator representing Kano North, Bello Hayyoutu Gwarzo, have formally defected to the All Progressives Congress (APC). This move, announced on Sunday, is set to substantially bolster the ruling party's influence in Kano State ahead of the 2027 elections, following months of intense speculation and behind-the-scenes negotiations.
Shekarau's Decision Driven by PDP's Leadership Crisis
Shekarau, who previously served as a member of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) Board of Trustees, revealed that his departure from the opposition party was compelled by what he described as an overwhelming leadership crisis. He stated that after careful evaluation, it became clear that the PDP had permanently crashed as a viable political entity, leaving the APC as the only reliable and alternative platform to pursue his political ambitions.
"We weighed several options after realizing that PDP has permanently crashed out as a Political Party," Shekarau explained to hundreds of supporters gathered at his private residence in Kano. "The choice of APC became a readily available option that my supporters agreed to join."
Prior to making this decision, Shekarau conducted extensive consultations with his Shura Council, elders committee, board members, and other key stakeholders within his political movement. He emphasized that the choice to join the APC was reached through a consensus among all parties involved in the decision-making process.
"We have fervently prayed, deliberated on our movements and made serious contacts, talked to everybody, and finally accepted and agreed to decamp to APC, which is today the best Party that cares for Nigerians," Shekarau affirmed.
Rejection of ADC and Gwarzo's Parallel Defection
When questioned about other potential political homes, such as the African Democratic Congress (ADC), Shekarau dismissed the party as being congested with individuals driven by personal interests rather than the collective welfare of Nigerians. He criticized the ADC as a party struggling to establish itself, facing significant legal challenges, and embroiled in internal leadership conflicts.
Joining Shekarau in this political shift, former Senator Bello Hayyoutu Gwarzo also announced his defection to the APC. Gwarzo attributed his decision to the perceived weakness of the opposition, particularly their inability to effectively participate in recent off-season elections in Ekiti and Ondo States. This dual defection underscores a broader trend of political consolidation within the APC in northern Nigeria.
Governor Yusuf Welcomes New Members, Highlights Party's Growing Dominance
Kano State Governor, Abba Kabir Yusuf, has warmly welcomed Shekarau and Gwarzo into the APC fold, describing their return as a major boost to the party's strength and cohesion in the state. In a statement issued by his press secretary, Mustapha Mohammad, Governor Yusuf noted that a formal reception ceremony will be scheduled in consultation with the APC's national secretariat to officially integrate the former governor into the party.
Governor Yusuf highlighted that the APC in Kano continues to experience growing support and consolidation, positioning itself as the most dominant political force in the state. He expressed confidence that the party is battle-ready to secure all elective positions in upcoming elections, citing unity and strategic alignments as key factors driving this optimism.
The Governor further assured party members and supporters that the leadership is committed to strengthening internal cohesion and expanding the party's grassroots base across Kano State. He called on all party faithful to remain steadfast and continue mobilizing support as the APC prepares for future political contests, emphasizing that these defections are a testament to the party's appeal and organizational strength.
This development follows consistent lobbying efforts by the APC's National Chairman, Professor Nentawe Yilwatda, and Governor Yusuf, who personally visited Shekarau's residence to facilitate the move. Shekarau, who also met with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu a few weeks prior, had pledged to announce his next political steps after comprehensive consultations, which have now culminated in this high-profile defection.
