APC

By Abdullahi Mukhtar Algasgaini

Kaduna State stakeholders of the All Progressives Congress (APC) convened on Thursday, 27 February 2025, at the Kaduna State Liaison Office in Abuja.

The meeting, chaired by Governor Uba Sani, focused on welcoming new and returning party members, reviewing recent zonal and state-level stakeholder meetings, and evaluating the performance of the APC-led administrations at both federal and state levels.

Key attendees included Rt. Hon. Abbas Tajudeen, Speaker of the House of Representatives; former Governor Mukhtar Ramalan Yero; Hon. Minister of Environment, Malam Balarabe Abbas Lawal; and other prominent party leaders and officials.

After thorough discussions, the stakeholders resolved to organized caucus meetings at zonal, local government, and ward levels to introduce new and returning members before the administration’s second anniversary; revitalize or establish party offices at ward, local government, and zonal levels within the next three months.

They also unanimously pass a vote of confidence in President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and Governor Uba Sani, commending their exemplary leadership and people-focused governance.

The stakeholders expressed strong support for the current administration’s efforts and reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening the party’s grassroots presence.

By Abdullahi Mukhtar Algasgaini

The ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) leaders gathered at the party’s headquarters in Abuja for the National Executive Committee (NEC) meeting.

Armed security officers, including soldiers, in collaboration with other security agencies, barricaded all roads leading to the venue on Blantyre Street. Vehicle and pedestrian movement around the area was restricted, and journalists were denied access to the venue. 

However, APC spokesperson Felix Morka released a list of accredited journalists for the event on Wednesday morning.

Among those who arrived early for the meeting were members of the National Working Committee (NWC), state party leaders, former Zamfara State Governor Abdulaziz Yari, Minister of Budget and National Planning Atiku Bagudu, and Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives Benjamin Kalu.

Governors from Edo, Benue, Ondo, Ekiti, Kaduna, Jigawa, Nasarawa, Yobe, Niger, Lagos, Kogi, Ogun, Imo, Deputy Governor of Ebonyi, and former governors of Kogi, Kebbi, Niger, Zamfara, and Plateau also attended.

Notable absentees at the NEC meeting included former President Muhammadu Buhari, former Kaduna State Governor Nasir El-Rufai, and former Rivers State Governor and ex-Minister of Transport Rotimi Amaechi.

Party leader, President Bola Tinubu, Vice President Kashim Shettima, Senate President Godswill Akpabio, and Speaker of the House of Representatives Tajudeen Abbas arrived at the meeting around 12 PM. The party’s national chairman, Abdullahi Ganduje, presided over the meeting.

This was the first NEC meeting since Tinubu assumed office as president in May 2023, following a party high-level meeting held at the Presidential Villa in Abuja.

Some party stalwarts, including El-Rufai and former Deputy National Chairman of the APC Salihu Lukman, have expressed concerns about the ruling party’s lack of internal democracy.

By Anwar Usman

The National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress, Dr Abdullahi Umar Ganduje, said on Wednesday that when he assumed office, he found an N8.9 billion debt from the previous leadership.

The former Kano State governor made this known in Abuja, where he was speaking at the ongoing National Executive Committee meeting of the APC.

He stated that the expenses were incurred during pre-election legal battles, election cases, and appeals for legislative, governorship, and presidential elections.

He explained, “The current NWC inherited debts and legal liabilities amounting to N8,987,874,663, arising from various legal engagements.”

The former Governor explained that Professor Abdul Kareem Kana (SAN), the National Legal Adviser, has been working to alleviate the debt burden.

He pleaded, “We still passionately appeal to the National Executive Committee to intervene accordingly”.

In attendance were President Bola Tinubu, Vice President Kashim Shettima, Senate President Godswill Akpabio, Speaker of the House of Representatives Tajudeen Abbas, state governors, NWC members, and other party chieftains.

By Jamil Jetta

The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has noted the recent decamping of some of its stakeholders in Kaduna State to the All Progressives Congress (APC). While this move has been long anticipated, it comes as no surprise given the lack of credibility, political momentum, and true patriotic zeal exhibited by these individuals in their various constituencies. It is remarkable to understand that some of the decampees have left the Party since 2024.What happened was just a political Circus show put forward by the APC to mask its dwindling fortunes.

The PDP remains unshaken by this development, as the party continues to enjoy the unwavering support of the majority of the people of Kaduna State who recognize its commitment to good governance, national unity, and sustainable development. The decamping of these individuals, many of whom have struggled to maintain relevance in their political careers, only reinforces the PDP’s position as the party of choice for the people of Kaduna State who value integrity and progress.

For those decamping from Southern Kaduna, it is important to remind them that the zone has always been a traditional PDP stronghold. Their departure will not alter the fact that the PDP remains the preferred party of the people in this Zone.The voters of Southern Kaduna are politically astute and have consistently demonstrated their loyalty to the PDP, a trend that will continue in future elections.

To those decamping from other Senatorial Zones, the PDP wishes to remind them that the political opportunities they have enjoyed were made possible by the party. Without the platform provided by the PDP, many of these individuals would not have attained the positions they hold today. Their decision to abandon the party that nurtured their political careers is a testament to their lack of gratitude and foresight.

The PDP reiterates that politics is ultimately a game of numbers, and the majority of actual voters remain loyal to the party. These voters, who are the backbone of Kaduna State’s democracy, have consistently voted along the lines of integrity, development, and good governance – values that the PDP embodies. The decamping of a few individuals will not sway the resolve of the millions of Nigerians who continue to stand with the PDP.

The PDP remains committed to its mission of delivering a brighter future for all the people of Kaduna. The party is confident that its track record of achievements and its vision for a better Nigeria will continue to resonate with the electorate. As we approach future elections, the PDP is more determined than ever to consolidate its support base and emerge victorious.

The PDP urges its members and supporters across the country to remain steadfast and focused. The party’s strength lies in its people, and together, we will continue to champion the cause of democracy and development in Nigeria.

Piquantly,the People Democratic Party (PDP) is one of Nigeria’s leading political parties, committed to promoting democracy, good governance, and sustainable development. With a rich history of achievements and a vision for a better Nigeria, the PDP remains the party of choice for millions of Nigerians.

Honorable Jamil Shuaib Jetta, a former aspirant for the Kaduna State House of Assembly, wrote in from Kaduna and can be reached via jamilshuaib57@gmail.com.

By Abdullahi Mukhtar Algasgaini

Over 1,500 members of the All Progressives Congress (APC) have officially defected to the ruling New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP) in Kano State.

The defectors, who hail from various wards in the Gwarzo Local Government Area, were warmly received by Kano’s Deputy Governor, Aminu Abdulsalam, at his office.

During the reception, the Deputy Governor praised the defectors’ decision, calling it a courageous move to support the administration of Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf.

He stated that the party’s vision for good governance and development in Kano is resonating with the people, and assured the new members of equal opportunities and full integration into the NNPP’s structure.

The leaders of the defecting group, Malam Abdullahi Tiga and Aliyu Sulaiman, explained their decision, citing the APC’s failure to meet the people’s aspirations.

They expressed confidence in the NNPP leadership and pledged to support the party in its future endeavors.

In a show of solidarity, the Chairman of Gwarzo Local Government, Dr. Mani Tsoho, assured the defectors of fair treatment and equal opportunities within the local government.

Party officials and supporters also committed to strengthening the NNPP as the state prepares for future political contests, encouraging more citizens to join the growing party.

This move marks a major shift in the political landscape of Kano State, as the NNPP gains momentum with the increasing support of former APC members.

By Uzair Adam

Kano State APC Chairman, Abdullahi Abbas, has stated that his political ambition is to become the governor of Kano, not to remain the party’s chairman.

He made the remark in an interview with the BBC while reacting to recent comments by Nigeria’s Minister of State for Housing and Urban Development, Yusuf Abdullahi Ata, who had threatened to leave the party.

Ata had warned that he would quit the APC if Abdullahi Abbas was re-elected as the party’s chairman for a fourth term.

The Daily Reality reports that the minister’s strong remarks, captured in a viral video circulating on social media, have further heightened political tension in Kano.

However, Abbas dismissed Ata’s stance, stating that the minister was never a party member.

“For us in the party, he was never a member. In the whole of Kano, in his local government, we came third,” he said.

“We didn’t even know when he was appointed as a minister. We even told the president that he is not our party member, that he engaged in anti-party activities.”

Abbas expressed surprise over Ata’s ministerial appointment, adding, “We are really surprised at how this happened, honestly. He is just a politician at the local government level.”

By Uzair Adam  

On Sunday, the Deputy President of the Senate, Senator Barau I. Jibrin, distributed 61 cars and 1,137 motorcycles to leaders of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Kano State.  

The distribution, held at Meena Event Centre on Lugard Road near the Kano State Government House, was attended by key party stakeholders, including the APC National Chairman, Dr Abdullahi Umar Ganduje.  

The vehicles and motorcycles were allocated to party chairmen in the 44 local government areas and 484 wards of the state as part of efforts to strengthen the APC’s grassroots structure.  

Speaking at the event, the Kano State APC Chairman, Abdullahi Abbas, lauded Barau for consistently supporting the party since the New Nigeria People’s Party (NNPP) took over the state in 2023. 

He emphasized that ahead of the 2027 elections, aspirants would be assessed based on their contributions to the party’s development.  

Similarly, the Chairman of the House of Representatives Committee on Petroleum Resources (Upstream), Rep. Alhassan Ado Doguwa, expressed confidence in the APC’s resurgence, predicting that the NNPP would be defeated before 1 p.m. on election day in 2027.  

In his remarks, APC National Chairman Dr Ganduje commended Barau for the initiative, describing it as a step towards consolidating the party and improving the livelihoods of its members. 

He also highlighted the increasing defections from the NNPP to the APC, suggesting that the opposition party’s influence in Kano was waning.  

Senator Barau, while addressing the gathering, described the empowerment initiative as just the beginning of a broader program targeting various sectors, including youths, students, farmers, women, traders, and clerics. 

He reaffirmed his commitment to expanding the initiative and urged continued support for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration.  

He noted that Tinubu’s policies were beginning to yield positive results, citing the gradual reduction in fuel prices, stabilization of the Naira, and improvements in food prices.  

“This is just the tip of the iceberg. We will empower all spheres of society. Let’s continue to support Mr. President for the success of his programs,” Barau said.

By Ukasha Sani Idris

Recently, strange “activism “ by former governor of Kaduna State, Malam Nasiru El-Rufai on his social media platformshas reaffirmed the rumor that he’s no longer on good terms with his successor, the current governor of Kaduna State.

On X (formerly Twitter), El-Rufai responded to a follower’s claim that he would be arrested if he returned to Nigeria.

Malam responded by saying, “ …Your post below refers. I have been hearing these same rumors of arrest, detention and torture in some dungeon in the NSA’s office (where Emefiele was allegedly tortured to resign as CBN governor), since July 2024 when the so-called report of the Kaduna Assembly began circulating…”

El-Rufai VS His benefactors

This development has sparked renewed interest in El-Rufai’s history of betraying his benefactors. Farooq Kperogi’s August 2023 column highlighted El-Rufai’s “serial betrayals,” noting that he turned against former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, who brought him into the national spotlight, and later betrayed former President Obasanjo. In it, he mentioned:

“Of course, El-Rufai later betrayed Obasanjo—and everybody else that has propelled his career or extended favors to him.”

“El-Rufai seems congenitally incapable of being loyal to people who feather his aspirations. “

“What’s happening to El-Rufai now actually pales in comparison to the depth of his serial betrayals of his benefactors. It’s a case of live by the sword, die by the sword.”

Who is the biggest casualty?

When Madina Maishanu questioned Bello El-Rufai on BBC Hausa about the current feud between his father and former boss, the worry lines suddenly appeared on his face. Still, he tried to maintain a neutral stance and replied, “It’s not most desirable, but it’s part of life. Couples divorce. Friends fall out…”

When pressed on whether he would mediate a reconciliation between them, he stated that it is not his responsibility to mediate between his father and Governor Uba Sani; his responsibility is Kaduna North.

He also reaffirmed that Uba Sani is still his boss after reemphasising his strong bond with his father.

Where is Dadiyata?

In another response to the same diehard fan, Malam wrote:

“Be careful, Imran @IU_Wakilii……the Kaduna Kidnapping Team (I will reveal this next week, in sha Allah) will either try implementing the Danbilki Commander (abduct, whip and then offer money) or the Bashir Saidu (abduct and imprison) treatment on you. Please keep away from Kaduna and stay safe wherever you are.”

MALAM shouldn’t only reveal the “Kidnapping Team” without telling us when and how it started and the architect behind this torture, perhaps his information would take us back to Dadiyata’s abduction that occurred when he was the sitting governor of the state where Dadiyata was abducted.

Life Lesson:

“Do unto others as you would have them do unto you.”

1. El-Rufai’s recent social media outbursts seem to be a reflection of his own bitter experiences. Many are suggesting that he’s facing the consequences of his own actions.
2. If the biological son of MALAM can maintain a neutral stance, at least in our view regarding this matter, why are the sons and daughters of “Nobody” so eagerly rushing to inherit other people’s feud?

I cherish the virtues of honour, respect, and integrity; however, I am in no way justifying betrayal and distrust. I also pray I never find joy in someone’s downfall.

Ukasha Kofarnassarawa wrote via ukasha_sani@yahoo.com.

By Hadiza Abdulkadir

Popular Kannywood actor Mustapha Badamasi Nabraska has defected from the New Nigeria People’s Party (NNPP) and the Kwankwasiyya Movement to the All Progressives Congress (APC).

Senator Barau Jibril, representing Kano North, announced the defection on social media, revealing that Nabraska visited his residence in Abuja, where he symbolically discarded his red cap—an emblem of the Kwankwasiyya Movement. Senator Ibrahim Lamido (Sokoto East) and Political Adviser Hon. Yusuf Tumfafi were also present to receive him.

Nabraska, known for his shifting political allegiances, previously worked under the APC-led government of former Kano governor Dr. Abdullahi Umar Ganduje. However, after the NNPP’s victory in the 2023 Kano governorship election, he switched sides, only to return to APC now.

The actor’s latest move has drawn mixed reactions. Many social media users mock his frequent party changes, suggesting they are motivated by personal gain rather than ideology.

By Uzair Adam 

The Zamfara State government has banned all political gatherings and rallies across the state, citing the need to maintain peace and stability.  

The restriction, which immediately applies to all political parties, was announced following a political clash in Maru Local Government Area.  

Speaking with BBC Hausa, Mustapha Jafaru Kaura, the Senior Special Assistant to the Governor on Broadcast, Media, and Public Affairs, said the decision was taken to prevent further unrest after a recent incident in Maru that resulted in casualties and property damage.  

He clarified that the ban is temporary, not intended to suppress political activities but to ensure public safety. Security agencies have been instructed to enforce the directive.  

However, the opposition All Progressives Congress (APC) has rejected the move, arguing that it infringes on their rights. 

The party’s spokesperson, Malam Yusuf Idris Gusau, described the decision as politically motivated, claiming it was triggered by a recent APC gathering that unsettled the state government.  

“There is no law that permits the banning of political gatherings. Our party is registered at the national level, and our members are law-abiding citizens who will not engage in actions that threaten peace,” Gusau stated.  

The ban has sparked debate, with concerns over its implications for political engagement in the state.