The move brings several PDP and ADC officials into the ruling party, with Governor Idris calling for unity among old and new members
Governor Nasir Idris has received more than 10,000 defectors from the African Democratic Congress and the Peoples Democratic Party into the All Progressives Congress in Kebbi State, describing the development as a boost for the ruling party ahead of future elections.
Also read:Â Niger Gov Bago Retains Deputy Governor Yakubu Garba for 2027 Race
The defectors, who include several local government party chairmen and political stakeholders, were formally welcomed at the Government House in Birnin Kebbi on Tuesday, where Governor Idris assured them of equal treatment and full integration into the APC.
Addressing the gathering, Governor Idris said the APC remained open to Nigerians willing to contribute to the state’s development and urged the new members to work closely with existing party leaders to strengthen the party.
“The APC is a party for everyone. We will treat all members equally and ensure the new entrants are fully integrated into our activities,” Governor Idris said.
The governor also appealed to APC leaders across Kebbi State to embrace the new members and create an atmosphere of unity as the party expands its support base.
Speaking on behalf of supporters of ADC chieftain Senator Garba Musa Maidoki, Bello Doya said the group decided to join the APC because of what it described as the transparent and people-centred development programmes of the Idris administration.
“We resolved to join the APC to support the governor’s developmental agenda, which we believe is benefiting the people of Kebbi State,” Bello Doya said.
In a related development, the Chairman of the PDP Local Government Chairmen’s Association in Kebbi State also defected to the APC alongside several other party officials.
Speaking for the PDP defectors, Bello Manti, Chairman of Bunza Local Government Area, said Governor Idris’ performance in office and inclusive leadership style influenced their decision to leave the opposition party.
Among the prominent defectors were the PDP chairmen of Dandi, Koko/Besse, Arewa, Zuru, Ngaski, Yauri, Shanga, Danko-Wasagu, Sakaba and Aliero local government areas.
The development comes amid a wave of political realignments across Nigeria as parties reposition ahead of future electoral contests.
In recent months, both the APC and opposition parties have witnessed defections at the national and state levels, reflecting shifting political alliances and strategic calculations before the next election cycle.
Also read:Â ADC Accuses Tinubu of Threatening Democracy Ahead of 2027
While the APC described the latest defections as a sign of growing confidence in Governor Idris’ administration, opposition parties are expected to intensify efforts to consolidate their remaining structures in Kebbi State.
