A Nigerian federal lawmaker, Abdulmumin Jibrin, has defected from the New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP) to the All Progressives Congress (APC). Jibrin, who represents Kiru/Bebeji Federal Constituency in the House of Representatives, announced his decision on Facebook, stating that his supporters had unanimously agreed to leave the NNPP and its affiliate, the Kwankwasiyya Movement, to join the ruling APC.
The lawmaker declared his total support for President Bola Tinubu’s re-election bid in 2027. According to Jibrin, thousands of his constituents gathered in his hometown of Kofa, Bebeji, Kano, to endorse his decision and pledge their support for the APC. The gathering also expressed support for President Tinubu’s second term in office.
Jibrin’s defection comes two months after he resigned from the NNPP following his expulsion from the party over alleged anti-party activities and non-payment of dues. The lawmaker had disputed the allegations, describing his expulsion as “shocking and unjustified.” He claimed that an interview he granted, which the party cited as the basis for his suspension, did not warrant his expulsion.
Jibrin also alleged that the NNPP violated the principles of fair hearing and due process by expelling him without giving him an opportunity to defend himself. Despite this, he chose not to challenge the decision in court. The lawmaker maintained that he had never neglected his obligations regarding the payment of his membership dues.
The development marks a significant shift in Jibrin’s political affiliation, as he returns to the APC, a party he previously belonged to. His decision is likely to have implications for the political landscape in his constituency and the broader Nigerian political scene. With his defection, Jibrin joins the ranks of APC lawmakers in the House of Representatives, potentially strengthening the party’s presence in the legislature.
In a show of solidarity, Jibrin’s constituents have demonstrated their support for his decision, and the APC is likely to welcome the lawmaker’s return. As the country approaches the 2027 general elections, Jibrin’s endorsement of President Tinubu’s re-election bid may influence the voting decisions of his constituents and contribute to the APC’s campaign efforts.
