5,000 APM Members Defect to PDP in Katsina, Back Lado Danmarke’s Governorship Bid
By Sabiu Abdullahi
At least 5,000 members of the Allied Peoples Movement (APM) in Katsina State have defected to the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), declaring support for the party’s governorship candidate, Senator Yakubu Lado Danmarke, ahead of the 2027 general elections.
The defectors, led by the Chairman of Katsina Frontiers, Alhaji Aliyu Sani, formally joined the PDP during a rally held in Katsina on Sunday.
Speaking at the event, Sani said the decision to leave the APM was informed by their confidence in Danmarke’s leadership qualities and his record of humanitarian activities, particularly his support for vulnerable groups, including the poor, elderly and children.
He cited the senator’s provision of food and financial assistance to residents, especially during Ramadan, describing him as a humble leader who prioritises public welfare over personal comfort and material wealth.
Also addressing the gathering, Muhammad Hassan El-Makki said Katsina needed a leader genuinely committed to improving the living conditions of its people.
He described Danmarke as an experienced politician capable of transforming key sectors, including agriculture, healthcare, energy and infrastructure.
El-Makki also highlighted the senator’s scholarship programmes and contributions to community development, urging residents to support his governorship ambition.
In his remarks, Danmarke welcomed the new members, saying their defection reflected growing confidence in the PDP and his candidacy.
He disclosed that the group comprised political structures linked to a former governorship aspirant, prominent individuals, retirees and grassroots coordinators drawn from different parts of the state.
The PDP governorship candidate identified insecurity as Katsina’s most pressing challenge, promising to make the restoration of security his administration’s immediate priority if elected.
He also pledged to revitalise the education, healthcare, agriculture and infrastructure sectors, while criticising the incumbent administration over what he described as its failure to meet residents’ expectations.
Danmarke called on the people of Katsina to support the PDP, promising people-centred governance and a comprehensive effort to rebuild the state.
The state PDP Chairman, Alhaji Nura Amadi Kurfi, delivered the vote of thanks, expressing confidence that Danmarke’s candidacy would bring progress and development to Katsina.
The Daily Reality