Mass defection hits Jigawa opposition as 66,471 members join APC

By Umar Akilu Majeri, Dutse

A major wave of political defections has hit Jigawa State as over 66,471 members from various opposition parties, including prominent leaders from the New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP), defected to the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC).

Notable figures who joined the APC with their large contingents of supporters include Alh. Aminu Jahun and Alh. Yusuf Shitu Galanbi.

Speaking at the ceremony, Alh. Aminu Jahun affirmed his commitment to the ruling party, stating that he and all his supporters defected to the APC to ensure the party's victory in the 2027 general elections.

Similarly, Alh. Yusuf Shitu Galanbi explained their decision by citing the fairness and justification demonstrated by Governor Namadi, whom he praised as an exemplary leader who ensures justice for all. Galanbi further pledged that his entire group of decampees would cast their votes for the Tinubu/Namadi ticket in 2027 to secure the party's success.

The APC Chairman, Alh. Aminu Sani Gumel, welcomed the new members, promising them equal treatment and integration into the party structures.

The event drew party supporters and dignitaries from neighboring states including Yobe, Katsina, Bauchi, and Kano, underscoring its political significance.

Despite the massive wave of defections, the ceremony was marred by significant delays. Governor Namadi, who was originally scheduled to attend by 2:00 PM, arrived several hours late, causing major disruption and leaving thousands of attendees stranded. The Governor eventually reached the Dutse stadium venue around 5:22 PM, by which time many people had already left. It was observed that even many of the decampees themselves became stranded and frustrated due to the inability of the event to start on time.

The ceremony ground, which had been stormed by party supporters from all 27 local government areas, became noticeably sparse around 3:30 PM, with only a few core party loyalists and government officials remaining, as the majority departed after waiting for the fixed time.