Kebbi State’s ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) says it is poised to benefit from ongoing internal crises within opposition parties, as defections to the ruling party continue to reshape the state’s political landscape.
APC spokesperson Issa Abubakar-Asalafi said the ongoing disputes within the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and the African Democratic Congress (ADC) could lead to further defections into the ruling party. He noted that the PDP has recently witnessed high-profile defections, including its 2023 governorship candidate, Aminu Bande, who moved to the ADC. Meanwhile, the ADC is grappling with factional disputes over its leadership in the state.
“Politics is a game of numbers, and parties must put their houses in order before challenging a ruling party,” Abubakar-Asalafi said. He added that the APC remains confident of maintaining its dominance in Kebbi, expressing optimism that the party would secure a strong victory in the 2027 elections.
The APC spokesman also noted that all three senators elected under the PDP in Kebbi, along with members of the House of Representatives, have since defected to the ruling party. He said the wave of defections reflects growing confidence in the APC’s leadership and governance in the state, adding that more politicians are expected to join the party ahead of the next general elections.
Abubakar-Asalafi further urged opposition parties to resolve their internal disputes, warning that continued disunity could undermine democratic competition and limit their chances at the polls.
Kebbi State, located in northwestern Nigeria, has been a stronghold of the APC since the return to democratic rule in 1999. The party has consistently won gubernatorial and legislative elections, consolidating its position through strategic alliances and defections from opposition parties.
The latest developments come as Nigeria prepares for the 2027 general elections, with political parties already positioning themselves for the contest. The APC’s dominance in Kebbi has been attributed to its focus on grassroots mobilization, infrastructure development, and social welfare programs, which have resonated with voters in the state.
As the political landscape continues to evolve, the APC’s ability to attract opposition members could further solidify its control in Kebbi, while raising questions about the strength and viability of opposition parties in the state.
