By Seyi Odewale
A former Kano State governor and senator, Malam Ibrahim Shekarau, has defected from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to the All Progressives Congress (APC), a move that is already reshaping political alignments in the state ahead of future elections.
Shekarau announced his decision on Sunday while addressing supporters at his Mundubawa residence in Kano, saying the defection followed extensive consultations and a careful assessment of the political landscape.
“We took the decision after wide deliberations and weighing several options, including joining the APC after realising that the PDP is facing so many challenges,” he said.
He added, “We cannot align with ADC, a party filled with people of personal interests, a party struggling to gain its feet.”
Kano, one of Nigeria’s most politically strategic states, has witnessed increasing realignments in recent months as parties position themselves ahead of the 2027 general elections.
Reacting, Kano State Governor, Abba Yusuf, welcomed Shekarau’s move, describing it as a significant boost that strengthens the APC’s footing across the state.
“This is a major boost for our party in Kano. The APC continues to witness growing support and consolidation, positioning itself as the most dominant political force,” Yusuf said in a statement issued by his Chief Press Secretary, Mustapha Muhammad.
He added that arrangements were underway, in consultation with the party’s national secretariat, to fix a date for Shekarau’s formal reception into the APC.
Yusuf further expressed confidence in the party’s preparedness, noting that it remained “battle-ready to win all elective positions” in upcoming elections, anchored on unity and strategic alliances.
Shekarau, a two-term governor, also directed his supporters to begin formal resignation from the PDP at their respective wards and liaise with APC leaders to complete their registration before the deadline.
The defection follows earlier overtures by APC leaders to woo the former governor, including a visit by the party’s National Chairman, Nentawe Yilwatda, to Kano on April 8, urging him to join the party and contribute to its 2027 electoral ambitions.
Political observers say the development could significantly alter the balance of power in Kano, as both major parties intensify strategies ahead of the next electoral cycle.
