Politics / 20 Apr 2026

Former Kano Governor, Shekarau defects to APC

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Former Kano Governor, Shekarau defects to APC

Former Kano State Governor Malam Ibrahim Shekarau has officially defected to the All Progressives Congress (APC).

The move, finalized on Sunday after weeks of high-level consultations, marks a major restructuring of the political landscape in the state.

Shekarau was not alone in his exit from the opposition; he was joined by Senator Bello Hayatu Gwarzo, a prominent chieftain of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).

The duo formalized their decision during a packed gathering of supporters at Shekarau’s Mundubawa Palace residence in Kano.

Addressing the crowd of loyalists, Shekarau explained that the resolution was the product of careful deliberation and a thorough assessment of available political paths.

He sought the consensus of his followers during the announcement, asking if they were in agreement with the shift.

The audience responded with unanimous approval, signaling a consolidated move into the ruling party.

This development follows a strategic visit by the APC National Chairman, Nentawe Yilwatda, who met with both Shekarau and Gwarzo just days prior.

During that meeting, Yilwatda made a personal appeal for the veteran politicians to return to the APC fold, framing his request as a son seeking the guidance and support of political fathers to foster unity among northern leaders.

While Shekarau had initially withheld an immediate answer, stating that his final decision would be guided strictly by the interests of Kano State, the conclusion of his consultations has now paved the way for his return.

This realignment occurs amidst a flurry of political activity in the state, including recent visits from the incumbent Governor, Abba Kabir Yusuf, as various factions jostle for position ahead of future electoral cycles.