3 hours ago
3
Former governor of Kano State and former senator, Ibrahim Shekarau, has said that he will soon make known his intention to decamp from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), and possibly to the All Progressives Congress (APC), depending on who first seeks his consent.
Shekarau told the national chairman of the APC, Professor Nantawe, who was on a visit to his house, that every option is on the table.
He said,c”You come at a time we are making final preparations to go out of PDP which we understand has been highly infected with a virus that crippled it and made it so irrelevant.
“Let me assure you that my movementsl alongside my Shura Council and all other supporters, friends, and well-wishers is for a Kano First reason, that anything that will make Kano get that is where I stand.
“Kano first is my final position. You see, as I contest the presidential seat, if Kano will be in crisis because of that, I pray may Allah deny me that position”.
The APC National Chairman, Prof Yilwatda, who led a high-powered delegation, said the visit was both a mark of deep personal respect for Shekarau and a calculated political move aimed at rallying influential northern leaders ahead of future elections.
He described Shekarau as “a sincere man and a decent politician,” whose experience and national network remain invaluable to Nigeria’s political landscape.
He noted that Kano holds a special place in his heart, describing it as his “second home,” but stressed that this particular visit was driven by pressing political considerations.
According to him, Northern Nigeria is at a decisive moment that requires unity and collaboration among key stakeholders to ensure stability and progress.
Reflecting on past political developments, the chairman recalled the North’s firm stance during the administration of former President Muhammadu Buhari, insisting that he must complete his tenure.
He emphasised that the same principle of fairness should now apply, allowing the South to complete its turn in power under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
“I am a northerner, and I will not allow anything that will sabotage the North,” he stated.
The APC chairman highlighted ongoing federal projects as evidence of the current administration’s commitment to northern development. He cited the gas pipeline project traversing the region and the Lagos–Kano–Maradi rail line as transformative initiatives expected to boost commerce and economic activities.
He described Kano as the commercial nerve centre of sub-Saharan Africa, noting that the completion of these projects would significantly enhance the state’s economic status.
Making a direct appeal, the APC chairman urged Shekarau to join the ruling party, describing him as one of the pillars of Nigerian politics whose guidance is crucial for electoral success.
“We are here to plead with you to join APC. We need your experience and leadership to move the party and the nation forward, irrespective of ethnic or religious differences,” he said.
He further assured that Kano currently enjoys the highest number of federal political appointments in Northern Nigeria, adding that the President remains committed to doing more for the state.
