A significant political shift has occurred in Zamfara State, Nigeria, as over 2,000 representatives of more than 10,000 members of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) from across the state’s 14 local government areas have defected to the All Progressives Congress (APC). The mass defection was received by Aminu Sani Jaji, a member of the House of Representatives representing Birnin Magaji/Kaura Namoda Federal Constituency.
According to Jaji, the defection is a clear indication that the APC is poised to reclaim the state and sweep all elective positions in the 2027 elections. Speaking at his residence in Gusau, Jaji expressed satisfaction with the move, stating that it demonstrates the defectors’ satisfaction with the APC’s ideology of prioritizing the development of the state. He assured the new members of equal treatment within the party, emphasizing that they would not regret their decision to join the APC.
Jaji also highlighted the renewed unity within the Zamfara APC, noting that the divisions that led to the party’s defeat in 2019 have been resolved. He attributed the party’s past failure to internal issues, which he claimed have been addressed to prevent a repeat in the future. The lawmaker further emphasized that Zamfara is an APC stronghold, citing the state’s significant contribution to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s victory in the 2023 presidential election.
The defection is seen as a significant boost to the APC’s chances in the 2027 elections, with Jaji expressing optimism that the party’s candidates will emerge victorious in all positions, from the presidential and gubernatorial elections to other political seats. The development is expected to have a profound impact on the state’s political landscape, potentially altering the balance of power in favor of the APC. As the political landscape continues to evolve, the outcome of the 2027 elections will be closely watched, with the APC’s newfound strength likely to play a crucial role in shaping the state’s future.