The chairman of Nigeria’s ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) in Kebbi State has dismissed reports of membership losses to opposition groups, asserting instead that the party is attracting defectors and strengthening its position in the region. Abubakar Kana Zuru addressed the claims in a statement issued to journalists in Birnin Kebbi, the state capital, emphasizing the APC’s unity and growth amid what he labeled as baseless rumors.
Kana Zuru refuted suggestions of internal dissent, stating that the party remains cohesive and continues to draw supporters from rival political factions. “We are growing stronger at both state and national levels,” he said during the Monday announcement. “By the will of God [In Sha Allah], the APC in Kebbi is committed to empowering residents through sustained social and economic programs.” His remarks come amid broader political dynamics in Nigeria, where shifting alliances and defections often shape elections.
The chairman pointed to what he described as transformative policies under the current state administration, which he said have advanced critical sectors. He cited infrastructure upgrades, educational reforms, healthcare expansions, and agricultural modernization as key achievements, alongside targeted initiatives supporting women and youth employment. These efforts, he argued, have driven visible progress, enhancing the party’s credibility and public trust.
While not directly addressing the origins of the claims about declining membership, Kana Zuru urged Kebbi residents to disregard what he called “misleading narratives” aimed at destabilizing the APC. He framed the party’s ongoing community-focused projects—such as skills training, microfinance support, and resource distribution—as evidence of its grassroots engagement. Such programs, he noted, align with broader national agendas under President Bola Tinubu’s APC-led government.
Political analysts observe that Kebbi, a northwestern state reliant on agriculture and grappling with security challenges, has seen incremental development under the APC, though opposition critics argue more progress is needed. The party’s emphasis on empowerment schemes appears tailored to address unemployment and poverty, issues central to voter concerns in the region.
Kana Zuru’s robust defense reflects a strategic effort to project confidence ahead of Nigeria’s next electoral cycle, where retaining state-level strongholds will be critical for the APC. His assurances also highlight a broader pattern of Nigerian political leaders countering perceptions of instability through public reaffirmations of unity and development.
As the APC seeks to consolidate its influence, the focus on tangible governance outcomes—rather than mere rhetoric—may prove pivotal in sustaining voter loyalty. For now, the party’s leadership in Kebbi remains adamant that internal solidarity and community partnerships will override external skepticism.
