Mass Defection Hits Opposition in Sokoto as APC Receives PDP, ADC Members at Wamakko’s Residence
From Bashir Rabe Mani in Sokoto
The All Progressives Congress, APC, in Sokoto State recorded a major political gain at the weekend following the defection of hundreds of members from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), African Democratic Congress, ADC, and other opposition parties.
The new members were formally received at the residence of the APC leader in Sokoto State, Sen. Aliyu Magatakarda Wamakko, former Governor of Sokoto, in a ceremony attended by party leaders and supporters from across the state.
Speaking on behalf of the defectors, former party officials said their decision was informed by the tangible giant strides of Gov. Ahmed Aliyu Sokoto in governance.
They highlighted four key areas: Such as infrastructure including ongoing road construction, urban renewal, and rural access roads.
On education they cited the construction and renovation of schools, payment of scholarships, and sustained humongous investments in free education.
The defectors also acknowledged sustained efforts by Gov. Ahmed Aliyu Sokoto to bolster citizens’ welfare in the myriad areas of social intervention programmes for women, youths, and vulnerable groups, and improved healthcare services, among others social needs of the people of the state.
On security, they extolled the Governor’s unwavering commitment and support to the various security agencies to ensure the security of lives and properties across the state.
They said, “We are joining APC because we have seen performance. The PDP and ADC have no clear direction.
“Gov. Ahmed Aliyu is working and we want to be part of that progress,” a former PDP LGA executive from Sokoto North said.
Welcoming the new entrants into the APC, Sen. Wamakko described the defection as a clear indication that APC remains the party of choice in Sokoto.
He assured the new members of equal rights and opportunities within the party.
“This is a homecoming. APC is one big family. With your coming, we are more united and stronger to deliver more dividends of democracy and to ensure victory for the party in 2027,” Wamakko stated.
He also commended President Bola Tinubu and Gov. Ahmed Aliyu for providing purposeful leadership at federal and state levels.
Party stakeholders said the development significantly strengthens APC structures ahead of the 2027 general elections.
The defectors included former State Legislators, former Local Government Council’s Chairmen, ward and LGAs Party Chairmen, Councilors, youths as well as women leaders from across the state.
As of the time of filing this report, PDP and ADC leaders in the state were yet to react to the mass defection.
