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Over 200 APC Members Defect To PDP In Jigawa As Political Realignments Intensify

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Over 200 APC Members Defect To PDP In Jigawa As Political Realignments Intensify

Over 200 APC Members Defect To PDP

The political landscape of Jigawa State is heating up ahead of the 2027 elections, as no fewer than 289 members of the All Progressives Congress (APC) have officially crossed over to the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Sakwaya Ward, Dutse Local Government Area.

The mass defection, which took place on Friday at the PDP ward office, is being seen as a major boost for the opposition party in a state where grassroots mobilization often determines the direction of electoral outcomes.

Why This Defection Matters

In Nigerian politics, ward-level defections may appear minor on the surface, but they often carry deep symbolic and practical weight. The fact that nearly 300 people — including 273 women — shifted allegiance in a single ward speaks volumes about the growing dissatisfaction within the APC and the resurgent influence of the PDP in Jigawa.

More importantly, defections like this provide momentum. With each wave of decampees, the receiving party strengthens its base and gains new avenues for grassroots organization, which can prove decisive when the election season arrives.

PDP’s Response: A Welcome with Open Arms

Representing the state chairman at the event, PDP deputy state chairman Umar Danjani welcomed the defectors warmly, praising the move as a “significant boost” to the party’s strength.

“We welcome you with open arms and promise to work tirelessly to address your concerns as we build a stronger Jigawa together,” Danjani assured, while also emphasizing the PDP’s readiness to accommodate new members and intensify grassroots mobilization before 2027.

His message was clear: the PDP is not only open for defectors but also actively positioning itself as a home for those dissatisfied with the APC’s governance in Jigawa.

The Defectors’ Perspective

What makes this defection even more striking is that the group was led by Mrs. Harira Sakwaya, wife of the APC ward chairman. In her address, she openly admitted regret over her previous political alignment.

“Joining APC was a disappointment for us,” she said bluntly, before thanking former Jigawa governor Sule Lamido for his contributions to Sakwaya, especially in women’s empowerment.

Her comments underline a broader narrative — one where APC’s inability to meet grassroots expectations is pushing members to reconsider their political future.

PDP Stalwarts Celebrate the Shift

Veteran PDP leader Mamuda Sakwaya described the defection as a milestone for both the ward and the state.

“This is a milestone for PDP in Sakwaya and Jigawa State at large,” he said. “It underscores the PDP’s growing influence at ward and grassroots levels, which is crucial for electoral success in the heartland.”

By positioning this defection as more than just a local event, Sakwaya reinforced the idea that the PDP is gaining momentum statewide — a narrative that could help sway undecided voters as the elections draw nearer.

Analysis: What This Means for Jigawa Politics

Jigawa has historically been a competitive battleground, though the APC has dominated recent election cycles. However, the symbolism of losing 289 members in a single ward — led by the wife of a ward chairman — cannot be ignored.

Three key takeaways stand out:

  1. Grassroots Discontent – APC’s inability to meet local expectations, particularly among women, is creating cracks in its support base.

  2. PDP’s Rebuilding Strategy – By embracing defectors and leveraging figures like Sule Lamido’s legacy, PDP is rebuilding its grassroots credibility.

  3. Momentum Ahead of 2027 – While the election is still years away, small but symbolic moves like this may gradually reshape the balance of power.

Final Thoughts

The Sakwaya Ward defection may be just one of many shifts to come, but it’s a clear reminder that Nigerian politics is built at the grassroots. With 289 APC members switching sides, led by a prominent local figure, the PDP has gained not only numbers but also symbolic momentum.

As 2027 edges closer, the question is whether this wave of defections will remain localized — or ripple outward to redefine the political balance in Jigawa State.

One thing is certain: the APC now has a growing battle on its hands to keep its grip on a state where the PDP appears determined to mount a serious comeback.

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Osun Governorship: APC Committee Promises Transparent, Fair Delegate Congress Across The State

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1 day ago

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December 10, 2025

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Osun Governorship: APC Committee Promises Transparent, Fair Delegate Congress Across The State

The All Progressives Congress (APC) Gubernatorial Delegate Congress Committee has officially arrived in Osun State ahead of the party’s highly anticipated ward-level congresses.

The committee, led by Chairman Sheu Umar Dange, paid a courtesy visit to the state APC leadership on Tuesday, December 9, at the party secretariat along Osogbo-Gbongan Road.

APC Pledges Transparency and Fairness

During the meeting with Osun APC Chairman Tajudeen Lawal and local government party leaders, Dange emphasized the committee’s dedication to fairness and transparency.

“We are ready to conduct delegate congresses in all 332 wards across the state. Our activities will be conducted without bias, and we welcome any complaints to address them fairly,” he said.

Dange urged party stakeholders to see their participation in the exercise as a crucial contribution to strengthening APC’s electoral success in Osun.

Ensuring a Smooth Congress

Secretary of the committee, Chiedu Eluemunoh, explained that all mechanisms for a smooth process were already in place. This includes the deployment of ad-hoc staff to all wards to ensure efficiency.

He clarified that only revalidated members of the APC in Osun will be eligible to vote.

“Being a party member does not automatically qualify you to vote. Only those revalidated will participate in the congress,” Eluemunoh noted.

To address potential grievances, an Appeal Committee has been set up, with sittings scheduled to begin on December 10, to hear complaints from any aggrieved members.

State APC Leadership Pledges Full Support

In response, Osun APC Chairman Tajudeen Lawal welcomed the congress committee and assured them of the full support of the State Working Committee (SWC) to ensure a successful and credible exercise.

“We are committed to providing all the necessary support to guarantee a smooth and transparent congress for our party members,” Lawal stated.

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Crime

Fresh Wave Of Insecurity: Pregnant Woman And Several Residents Abducted In Niger And FCT

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2 weeks ago

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November 28, 2025

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Fresh Wave Of Insecurity: Pregnant Woman And Several Residents Abducted In Niger And FCT

Nigeria continues to face serious security challenges as multiple communities in Niger State and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) experienced coordinated attacks this week. These incidents come just days after the abduction of students from St. Mary’s Catholic School in Niger State……CONTINUE READING

New Abduction in Niger State

Residents of Palaita community in Erena Ward, Shiroro Local Government Area were thrown into distress on Wednesday when armed groups invaded a rice farm and abducted several workers, including a pregnant woman. Community sources estimated the number of kidnapped victims to be around 24, while the Niger State Police Command confirmed 10 abductions as investigations continue.

Eyewitnesses said the incident occurred around 2:00 p.m. while farmers were busy harvesting their crops. Despite the community’s close proximity to a military base in Erena, the attackers escaped before security personnel arrived.

In a separate incident in Kakuru community, also in Erena Ward, residents reported that a visually impaired man was assaulted after refusing to hand over a mobile phone. The victim was given first aid, though his current condition remains unclear.

Police spokesperson, SP Wasiu Abiodun, confirmed the attacks, assuring that security agencies are actively working to rescue the victims and restore calm in the affected areas.

Fresh Abductions in the FCT

In Abuja, communities in the Bwari Area Council faced renewed tension following another night attack in Gidan-Bijimi, a settlement near the Kaduna boundary. Six young women and a 16-year-old boy were taken during the raid, according to residents.

The attack, which occurred around 9:47 p.m. on Wednesday, created panic among locals already concerned by previous incidents in the region. Local vigilance groups attempted to intervene but retreated due to limited resources.

As of Thursday morning, families reported that no contact had been made with the attackers, while police were still verifying the details.

Church Confirms Passing of Kaduna Cleric

The Diocese of Kaduna, Anglican Communion, has announced the death of Venerable Edwin Achi, who was abducted in October along with his wife and daughter. His passing was described as a deep loss to the Diocese and the wider Christian community. The Church also announced the cancellation of the upcoming “Stand Up for Jesus 2025” event in his honour.

The Diocese assured that prayers continue for the safe return of his wife and daughter.

Federal Government Responds to Rising Insecurity

Minister of Defence, Mohammed Badaru Abubakar, reaffirmed that the Nigerian military is intensifying efforts to eliminate criminal networks responsible for attacks across the country. He explained that intermittent assaults are typical of guerrilla-style tactics but insisted that security forces are “working day and night” to restore normalcy.

He further confirmed that the Federal Government has launched a full investigation into recent school abductions, including claims that security personnel were withdrawn prior to an incident in Kebbi State.

Police Redeploy Over 11,000 Personnel

Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, revealed that 11,566 police officers previously assigned to VIP protection have now been deployed to underserved communities to strengthen grassroots security.

He stated that the initiative is part of broader reforms aimed at improving community policing and ensuring fair distribution of manpower nationwide.

Cardinal Onaiyekan Calls for Better Equipment, Not More Personnel

Catholic Cardinal John Onaiyekan called on the Federal Government to prioritize properly equipping the officers already serving across the country rather than recruiting additional personnel. The Cardinal emphasized the need for immediate action, stressing that adequately supported police officers are capable of confronting insecurity.

Experts and Community Leaders Advocate Unity

Former Senator Shehu Sani and humanitarian organizations participating in the 9th International Conference on Love and Tolerance urged Nigerians to embrace unity, understanding, and dialogue. They highlighted the importance of addressing root causes of conflict, promoting peaceful coexistence, and supporting security agencies with the resources they need to protect communities.

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Crime

Dalung Breaks Silence: TikTok Chat With Bandit Exposes Deep Secrets Behind The Violence

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2 weeks ago

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November 28, 2025

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Dalung Breaks Silence: TikTok Chat With Bandit Exposes Deep Secrets Behind The Violence

Former Minister of Sports, Solomon Dalung, has opened up about a surprising and thought-provoking conversation he once had with a young man who claimed to be living in the bush as a bandit. Dalung shared the experience during an interview with News Central, explaining how the encounter gave him a deeper understanding of the issues fueling insecurity……CONTINUE READING

According to Dalung, he was browsing TikTok when he came across the young man, who openly described himself as someone living in the forest due to ongoing conflict. Curious, Dalung asked why they engaged in violent activities. The young man responded that they had suffered losses themselves and felt targeted by vigilante groups who, according to him, harmed their people and took their cattle. This, he said, pushed them into retaliation and led them deeper into the bush.

Dalung explained that he challenged the young man, pointing out that innocent people—including other Fulani individuals—were being harmed in the process. The young man replied that, from their viewpoint, only those living in the bush were considered part of their community, while anyone living in town was seen differently. It was a response that, according to Dalung, revealed how distorted perceptions can worsen the cycle of conflict.

Wanting to know if there was any path toward peace, Dalung asked what could help end the violence. The young man shared that they were open to negotiation and discussions that could encourage them to give up their weapons and reintegrate into society. Dalung noted that the confidence with which the young man spoke was unsettling, but it also showed that dialogue could be part of the solution.

Reflecting on the experience, Dalung urged the National Assembly to consider constitutional changes that would allow Nigerians the legal right to defend themselves responsibly, especially in areas affected by insecurity.

His conversation serves as a reminder of how complex the nation’s security challenges are—and how personal engagement, understanding, and strategic dialogue may help chart a way forward.

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