By Hussaini Ibrahim Sulaiman
In a major political shift, over 1,500 members of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Kano State have defected to the ruling New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP), strengthening the party’s hold in the state.
Kano State Deputy Governor and NNPP chieftain, Comrade Aminu Abdussalam Gwarzo, officially received the defectors at his office on Sunday night.
PUNCH gathered that the defectors, drawn from various wards of Gwarzo Local Government Area, pledged their loyalty to the NNPP and its leadership.
In a statement issued by his spokesperson, Ibrahim Garba Shuaibu, Gwarzo lauded the defectors for their decision, describing it as a bold step towards supporting Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf’s administration in delivering good governance and developmental projects.
He assured them of equal opportunities and full integration into the party structure.
“We are happy to welcome our brothers and sisters into the NNPP family. This is a testament to the growing acceptance of our party’s vision for Kano State and Nigeria as a whole,” Gwarzo said.
The leaders of the defectors, Malam Abdullahi Tiga from Lakwaya ward and Aliyu Sulaiman from Gwarzo ward, explained that their decision to leave the APC was due to the party’s failure to meet the aspirations of the people.
They expressed confidence in the NNPP’s leadership and pledged their unwavering support.
Chairman of Gwarzo Local Government, Dr. Mani Tsoho, assured the defectors of equal treatment and opportunities within the local government.
Party officials and supporters at the event reiterated their commitment to strengthening the NNPP ahead of future political contests, urging more people to join the party.
The mass defection is seen as a significant boost for the NNPP in Kano, further consolidating its influence in the state’s political landscape.