In a significant show of support, thousands of members from opposition parties in Jigawa State have defected to the All Progressives Congress (APC). The defectors, who were previously members of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), African Democratic Congress (ADC), and Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC), announced their decision at an APC rally held in Limawa Ward, Dutse. The rally, convened by Ambassador Salisu Muhammad Seeker, drew over 10,000 APC supporters.
The defectors were received by APC State Chairman Ahmed Garba, represented by the party's Publicity Secretary, Bashir Kundu. Garba commended residents of Limawa Ward for their support for President Bola Tinubu and Governor Umar Namadi. Kundu expressed confidence that the APC would retain its support in Jigawa in the 2027 elections, assuring new members of equal recognition and opportunities.
According to Kundu, the large turnout and influx of opposition members demonstrated the APC's growing grassroots support in the state. He attributed the support for the APC to political appointments given to indigenes of the area and infrastructure projects initiated by the Tinubu and Namadi administrations. These initiatives have contributed to the socio-economic development of the area and created opportunities, particularly for youths.
The rally was attended by notable figures, including APC House of Assembly candidate Ibrahim Yakubu Yargaba, a former chairman of Dutse Local Government Area, and other party leaders and stakeholders. Yargaba urged residents to sustain their support for the APC and vote for its candidates in the 2027 elections. He described the turnout as a demonstration of support for the programmes and policies of the Tinubu and Namadi administrations.
Yargaba cautioned supporters against complacency, urging them to intensify grassroots mobilisation and prevent opposition parties from gaining ground in the ward. He emphasised the importance of continued support for the APC, enabling the governments to consolidate their achievements and attract further development projects to the area.
The rally forms part of the APC's ongoing mobilisation activities ahead of the 2027 general elections. The event showcased the party's efforts to engage with residents and build support for its candidates. With thousands of new members joining the party, the APC is likely to strengthen its position in Jigawa State.
The defection of thousands of opposition party members to the APC in Jigawa State is a significant development in the lead-up to the 2027 general elections. The APC's growing grassroots support in the state is a testament to the party's efforts to engage with residents and deliver on its promises. The party's ability to retain support in Jigawa State will be crucial in determining its success in the upcoming elections.
Key points
- Thousands of opposition party supporters in Jigawa State have defected to the APC, citing support for President Bola Tinubu and Governor Umar Namadi.
