MASS DEFECTION: OVER 250 MEMBERS DUMP APC FOR PDP IN JIGAWA

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By: Sefiu Ajape

At least 289 members of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) have officially defected to the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) in Sakwaya Ward, Dutse Local Government Area of Jigawa State.

The defection took place on Friday at the PDP ward office, where the party’s deputy state chairman, Umar Danjani, stood in for the state chairman to welcome the new entrants.

Danjani commended the impressive turnout of key opposition figures from across the state who graced the event, describing the mass defection as a major boost to the PDP’s “strength and unity” ahead of the forthcoming elections.

He emphasized that the party remains open and ready to support the newcomers as they fully integrate into its fold, assuring that grassroots mobilisation and inclusiveness would be intensified in the build-up to the 2027 polls.

The deputy chairman further urged political stakeholders in Jigawa to embrace peace and uphold democratic principles as election preparations gather pace.

Reaffirming PDP’s commitment to the defectors, Danjani said, “We welcome you with open arms and promise to work tirelessly to address your concerns as we build a stronger Jigawa together.

“Our doors are always open to anyone committed to the progress of Jigawa. With your addition, we are closer to achieving a united front that will bring lasting development to the state.”

Also speaking, Mamuda Sakwaya, a prominent PDP stalwart and ward leader, expressed joy over the influx of new members.

“We warmly receive our brothers and sisters from APC who’ve chosen to join the true party of the people.

“This is a milestone for PDP in Sakwaya and Jigawa State at large.

“The event underscored the PDP’s growing influence at ward and grassroots levels, seen as crucial for electoral success in the heartland,” he remarked.

He reiterated that the PDP would continue to prioritise the needs of Jigawa residents while welcoming committed political actors into the party.

On her part, Mrs. Harira Sakwaya, leader of the defectors and wife of the APC ward chairman, expressed regret over her former political choice.

“Joining APC was a disappointment for us.

“We are grateful to Sule Lamido, who has done so much for Sakwaya and the women here—things we cannot repay,” she stated.

She criticised the APC for failing to live up to its members’ expectations, noting that poor leadership within the party forced many to seek a better political future under the PDP.

Highlighting the composition of the defectors, she revealed that the group comprised 273 women and 16 men.