Over 500 former members of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Jigawa State have switched allegiance to the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), blaming worsening economic conditions under Tinubu’s administration for their exit.
The mass defection, which took place on Friday in Sabuwar Dan Masara town, Dutse Local Government Area, saw a total of 573 APC members renounce the ruling party and officially join the PDP.
Mustapha Adamu, popularly known as Shugaba, who led the defectors, said the APC had lost its way and could no longer be trusted to prioritize the interests of ordinary Nigerians. “We can no longer continue to be part of a party that has abandoned the principles of fairness and justice,” he said, addressing supporters at the event.
“We are convinced that the PDP is the party that truly cares about the welfare of Nigerians and will work tirelessly to address the challenges facing our state and country.”
According to Shugaba, the growing hardship imposed by Tinubu’s economic policies was a major factor behind their decision to leave the APC. “We are excited to join a party that is dedicated to building a better Nigeria for all its citizens,” he added, encouraging other disillusioned party members to reconsider their political alignment.
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Receiving the new members, Umar Danjani, the deputy chairman of the PDP in Jigawa, hailed the defection as a positive sign of changing political tides in the state. “Today marks a significant milestone in our journey towards building a stronger, more united party,” Danjani said.
“We are thrilled to welcome our new members and look forward to working together towards a brighter future for our state.”
He reiterated the PDP’s commitment to progress, promising that the party would focus on real development, inclusive leadership, and policies that directly address the suffering of the people. “Our party is dedicated to addressing the challenges facing our state and country, and we believe that together, we can achieve great things,” he noted.
The development signals deepening discontent within the ruling party, particularly in the northern states where economic realities continue to bite, and political loyalty appears increasingly fluid.