In a major political shift in Jigawa State, scores of supporters from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and the New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP) have officially defected to the All Progressives Congress (APC).
The mass defection was announced during the 6th edition of the Government and Citizens Engagement programme held on Sunday in Buji Local Government Area.
Governor Umar Namadi personally received the defectors, expressing delight at the swelling ranks of the APC in the state.
Speaking at the event, Governor Namadi said, “We are happy to welcome our new members to the APC family. This defection is a testament to the good work we are doing in Jigawa State, and we will continue to work towards the development of our state.”
The Government and Citizens Engagement programme, an initiative introduced by the state government, provides a platform for citizens to interact directly with officials, air their grievances, and learn about the administration’s achievements and plans.
Governor Namadi assured the new entrants of fairness, equity, and inclusivity, promising that all members would be treated equally and that their voices would be heard, respected, and valued.
“We will ensure that everyone is treated equally and allowed to contribute to the party’s growth and development,” he pledged.
The governor further urged the new members to support his administration with constructive advice and help spread the APC’s vision across their communities. “Your coming will help build a stronger, more united party that can deliver on its promises to the people of Jigawa State. Together, we can take Jigawa State to new heights,” he said.
Earlier, speaking on behalf of the defectors, Idris Maikura from Unguwar Maina, Chirbun ward, said their decision was motivated by the visible developmental strides under Governor Namadi's leadership.
“We have seen the good work being done by Governor Umar Namadi, and we believe that the APC is the best platform to achieve our development goals.
We are confident that the APC will take Jigawa State to the next level, and we are excited to be part of it," Maikura stated.
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However, the defection has sparked reactions from the opposition parties. PDP State Chairman Ali Diginsa, when contacted by our correspondent, expressed disappointment over the development.
“We are not surprised, but we are disappointed. These individuals have abandoned the PDP for personal gains, and we will not miss them,” Diginsa said via a telephone conversation.
Efforts to reach Aminu Ringim, the NNPP leader in the state, proved unsuccessful, as calls to his phone went unanswered at the time of filing this report.
The mass movement into APC marks a significant boost for Governor Namadi’s administration ahead of future political contests and reflects the evolving political landscape in Jigawa State.
Stay with ConfirmNews for further updates on this story.