A former governorship aspirant and prominent Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) figure in Kebbi State, Alhaji Lawali Dakingari, has defected to the All Progressives Congress (APC) along with thousands of his supporters from Suru Local Government Area. The defection, which involves 2,208 delegates from various polling units, is seen as a significant development in the state’s political landscape.
Dakingari was received by Governor Nasir Idris and APC leaders at the Government House in Birnin Kebbi. He explained that the decision to leave the PDP was made after extensive consultations with his associates and supporters, with the aim of strengthening political participation and contributing to governance in the state. “Our decision reflects the collective position of our supporters and political structure,” he stated.
The APC Chairman in Kebbi State, Alhaji Abubakar Kana-Zuru, welcomed the new members and described the defection as a significant boost to the party. He urged them to remain committed to party unity and mobilization ahead of future political engagements. Governor Idris also assured the defectors of equal treatment within the party and called for sustained cooperation among members.
The Special Adviser on Media and Publicity to the Governor of Kebbi State, Yahaya Sarki, noted that the defection reflects growing confidence in the APC-led administration. “The decision by Alhaji Lawali Dakingari and his supporters to join the APC shows that many political actors and communities are aligning with the direction of governance in Kebbi State,” he said. The government, according to Sarki, will continue to prioritize inclusive governance and development across the state.
The defection is expected to have implications for the state’s political dynamics, with more defections from the PDP and other parties anticipated in the coming days. Former local government chairmen and political stakeholders who were unable to attend the event are also expected to join the APC. As the political landscape in Kebbi State continues to evolve, the APC is poised to consolidate its position, with a focus on unity and cooperation among its members.
