APC

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.

By Hadiza Abdulkadir

National Security Adviser (NSA) Malam Nuhu Ribadu has issued a formal demand for a public apology and retraction from Naja’atu Muhammad, a renowned activist and former director of the All Progressives Congress (APC) Presidential Campaign Council, following allegations she made in a viral TikTok video.

In the video, Muhammad asserted that during Ribadu’s tenure as chairman of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), he accused President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Senators George Akume, and Orji Uzor Kalu of being among the most corrupt governors in Nigeria 

Ribadu, through his legal representatives, described the allegations as “false, malicious, and highly defamatory.” He insists that the accusations are an attempt to damage his reputation and discredit him in his role as the NSA. Therefore, hehas demanded an immediate and public retraction of the statements and an apology.

“This is a clear case of character assassination. The allegations are not only baseless but also deeply injurious to my reputation,” Ribadu stated through his lawyers.

However, in a recent development, Naja’atu Muhammad has declared that she will neither apologise nor retract her statements. In a media interview, she maintained her claims and dismissed Ribadu’s demand, asserting that she has the right to express her views.

The dispute has stirred political circles, with analysts emphasizing responsible public discourse. Some warn against spreading unverified claims on social media, as they can lead to serious political and legal consequences repercussions. 

Political commentators have also noted that the unfolding situation underscores the increasing tensions within Nigeria’s political space. Many are watching closely to see whether Ribadu will take further legal action or escalate the situation further.

By Uzair Adam

Former Kaduna State Governor Nasir El-Rufai has dismissed notions that his political style is merely theatrical.

In a recent exchange on X (formerly Twitter), El-Rufai responded to a user’s praise of his memoir, Accidental Public Servant, by clarifying that he has no interest in playing a role akin to that of a “Nollywood actor” in governance.

The online user had remarked that after reading El-Rufai’s book, it was clear that no politician would invite him into their cabinet unless they were truly dedicated to national development.

El-Rufai thanked the tweep for the kind words, underscoring that his record speaks for itself. “I don’t know how to pretend. Being a Nollywood actor in governance is for some others, not for us committed to real service,” he wrote.

In recent public appearances, the former governor has been vocal in his criticism of the ruling party’s current direction. Reflecting on his role as a founding member of the APC, El-Rufai lamented the party’s drift from its foundational goals.

“I no longer recognize the APC,” he declared at an event in Abuja. “Our original mission was to combat corruption, revive the economy, and secure our nation. Yet, these priorities remain unaddressed, and the party’s internal structures have all but disintegrated.”

El-Rufai’s comments come amid ongoing debates about the nature of political engagement in Nigeria.

When questioned by Daniel Bwala—special adviser on policy communication to President Bola Tinubu—about whether his stance would be any different if he were serving in a cabinet position, El-Rufai reiterated his long-held position.

Citing his previous experience as a cabinet minister over two decades ago, he noted that he had always maintained a distance from positions that conflicted with his principles.

“I made it clear to Asiwaju that I was not interested in any future government role,” he stated, adding that his critique of the party’s current state would have been voiced regardless of his position.

El-Rufai’s forthright remarks and his commitment to authenticity continue to fuel discussions about the future of Nigerian politics and the need for leaders who prioritize substantive change over political theatrics.

By Abdullahi Mukhtar Algasgaini

The Nigerian Presidency has criticized former Kaduna State Governor Nasir El-Rufai for his comments about democracy in the country.

The Daily Reality reported that El-Rufai, speaking at a national conference in Abuja on Monday to strengthen democracy in Nigeria, stated that the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) party has failed to fulfill its promises to the people.

He said, “I no longer see the APC as a party. There has been no meeting of any party organs for two years—no meetings of the party leadership, no NEC, nothing. We don’t even know if it’s a one-man party or if there’s no structure at all.”

The former governor added that there was a significant gap between the party and the people, noting that the APC had deviated from its founding purpose and could no longer deliver on its promises to the public.

He further stated that the country’s problems result from the leadership of incompetent, lackadaisical individuals who hold power.

In response, Daniel Bwala, former Federal Capital Territory Minister and Special Adviser to President Bola Tinubu on Communications, accused El-Rufai of plotting to destabilize the government he helped establish.

On his X platform, Bwala queried whether El-Rufai would make such remarks if he were part of the current government and seated in the cabinet.

“Brother, if you were in the government and the cabinet, could you take this position and express such views? History has shown such behaviour in the past. Now you want to overthrow the government you helped establish,” Bwala said.