Mass defection hits PDP, as APC gains in Kebbi

By Musa Baba Adamu

Kebbi State Governor, Dr. Nasir Idris, has received key leaders of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and their supporters who joined the ruling party in Kalgo, Jega, and Aliero Local Government Areas on Thursday.

In Kalgo LGA, Alhaji Umar Namashaya Diggi led hundreds of his supporters into the APC. Similarly, in Jega LGA, Alhaji Atiku Bunu, a former Commissioner of Works, defected alongside thousands of PDP supporters. In Aliero LGA, Alhaji Abubakar Abba Alieru, younger brother of Senator Muhammadu Adamu Alieru, and former Commissioner for Education, Alhaji Muhammadu Magawata Alieru, also joined the APC with a significant number of followers.

This is contained in a statement by the Governor Nasir Idris’ spokesperson, Yahya Sarki.

Speaking on behalf of the defectors in Jega, Alhaji Atiku Bunu cited Governor Idris’ outstanding achievements and commitment to development as reasons for their decision to align with the APC. He also appealed for the immediate reopening of the College of Health Technology, Jega, to prevent disruptions to the academic calendar.

Responding to the appeal, Governor Idris directed the Ministry of Higher Education to reopen the college without delay, emphasizing his administration’s focus on advancing education in the state. “I am committed to ensuring the growth and development of our state, particularly in the education sector,” he said.

During the event, Professor Khalid Suleiman Jega, Chairman of the Kebbi State Universal Basic Education Board (SUBEB), highlighted the governor’s education-focused initiatives in Jega LGA, including the construction and renovation of classrooms, provision of school furniture, installation of boreholes, and fencing of schools.

In Aliero LGA, Alhaji Muhammadu Magawata Alieru, speaking on behalf of the defectors, praised Governor Idris for his dedication to governance and improving the well-being of Kebbi residents. He assured the governor of their loyalty, stating, “Our return to the APC is not for personal gain but to contribute to the development of the state under your exemplary leadership.” He also hinted that Senator Muhammadu Adamu Alieru would soon join the APC.

In recognition of Governor Idris’ support for persons with disabilities, Alhaji Malami Gwandu, Chairman of the Kebbi State Commission for Persons Living with Disability, presented him with a Merit Award, describing him as a “Pillar of Care for Persons.