Jigawa State Governor Umar Namadi has reaffirmed the All Progressives Congress (APC) as the dominant political force in the state, following the mass defection of approximately 4,000 members from rival parties in Taura Local Government Area.
The influx of new members, led by former state APC chairman and four-term House of Representatives member Hon. Safiyanu Ubale Taura, was formally received during the commissioning of a new APC secretariat in Taura. The defectors, previously associated with the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP), represent a significant political shift in the region.
Speaking at the event, Governor Namadi described the development as evidence of the APC’s growing popularity across Jigawa State’s 27 local government areas. He noted that the calibre of individuals joining the party, particularly those with strong grassroots mobilisation networks in Taura and Ringim, would further strengthen the APC’s political structure.
“The calibre of individuals we have received today represents the core of political mobilisation in Taura and Ringim,” Namadi stated. “This development clearly shows that the APC remains the party of choice for the people of Jigawa.”
The governor emphasised that the number of new entrants far exceeded any recent departures from the party, suggesting continued momentum for the APC. He assured the defectors of fair treatment and inclusive governance, pledging to justify the confidence placed in his administration.
APC State Chairman Hon. Ahmed Garba M.K. attributed the wave of defections to Governor Namadi’s leadership style and ongoing development projects across the state. The chairman indicated that such political realignments have become increasingly common under the current administration.
Hon. Safiyanu Ubale Taura, speaking on behalf of the new members, pledged their loyalty to the APC and committed to working toward the party’s electoral success in future elections.
The mass defection underscores the fluid nature of Nigeria’s political landscape, where party affiliations can shift significantly based on governance performance and political strategy. For Jigawa State, the development consolidates the APC’s position ahead of future electoral cycles, potentially reshaping the state’s political dynamics.
