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Over 1,500 members of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in the Zuru Emirate have crossed over to the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Kebbi State, signalling a major political shift ahead of the forthcoming elections.
The group was formally welcomed on Tuesday in Birnin Kebbi by the state APC chairman, Alhaji Abubakar Kana-Zuru, who said the defectors’ decision was driven by Governor Nasir Idris’ track record.
“Even if His Excellency had only constructed the Koko-Dabai-Zuru Road, it would have been enough for the people of Zuru Emirate to return him for a second term,” Kana-Zuru stated.
He pointed to the governor’s wider development initiatives, referencing upgraded hospitals, primary healthcare centres, schools, and other infrastructure projects across the state.
Kana-Zuru assured the new entrants of full inclusion in the party.
“Whatever we do as a party, we will involve everybody, new or old. Feel at home — you have made the right choice,” he told them.
Among the leading defectors was Alhaji Lawali Arzika Riba, a former PDP House of Assembly candidate, who said he quit the opposition because Governor Idris had demonstrated “a courageous and result-driven leader.”
He added that “The rescue of the abducted schoolgirls of Government Girls’ Comprehensive Secondary School, Maga, showed coordinated action between the state, federal government and security agencies. Kaura deserves special commendation.”
Arzika Riba, however, criticised certain aides of the governor, alleging that some were not keeping pace with his commitment and urging them to step up their support for the administration.
Two female defectors from Danko-Wasagu LGA, Binta Bena and Hajiya Maryam, said the PDP had lost ground in the area.
“Our decision is based on the exemplary leadership of Comrade Dr. Nasir Idris. Danko-Wasagu is fully APC now. We will deliver block votes,” they declared.
The large-scale defection is viewed as a notable boost for the APC as political realignments continue to gather momentum across Kebbi State.
