APC National Chairman Appeals to Shekarau to Return to Party

The National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Nentawe Yilwatda, made a visit to former Kano State Governor Ibrahim Shekarau on Wednesday, extending a formal invitation for him to return to the ruling party.

During his visit to Mr. Shekarau's residence, Mr. Yilwatda also engaged with Bello Hayatu, who previously served as the senator for Kano North district. Both Mr. Shekarau and Mr. Hayatu are currently prominent figures within the opposition Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).

This trip to Kano followed a similar initiative by the APC chairman to Governor Bala Mohammed of Bauchi State. These efforts are part of a wider strategy aimed at reconciliation and the recruitment of influential political figures across the country.

Mr. Yilwatda adopted a deferential tone during the meeting, referring to himself as a "son" seeking guidance from his elders to help bolster the party and the northern region.

"Come and help me, I am your son. I need your support, I need your mentorship. I am pleading with you to come and help me," Mr. Yilwatda stated.

He further appealed, "Let us all come back to APC. Your son at the APC is pleading; I cannot do it alone. Together we can build a very strong alliance to help the North."

In his response, Mr. Shekarau acknowledged the APC chairman's personal visit, commending the gesture as a sign of significant respect and sincerity.

"You have come to us; it is something you could have sent someone to do or even met me in Abuja, but you came yourself," Mr. Shekarau remarked.

The former governor indicated that the APC's outreach coincided with a period of contemplation for his political faction, particularly concerning the internal disputes currently affecting the PDP.

"You came at a time we are also searching for a solution to the cancer that has infected us in the PDP; we don’t know whether it is real cancer or not, however, we will discuss that later," Mr. Shekarau commented.

Mr. Shekarau clarified that an immediate decision would not be made. He explained that any future political decisions would be guided by the objectives of his 'Shura committee'.

"In a couple of days, you will hear from us whether we will join you or not, but I assure you that you will hear from us," he added. "Whatever we will do will be put on the scale of ‘Kano first.’"

Mr. Shekarau previously served two full terms as the Governor of Kano State, from 2003 to 2011. He later held the position of minister of education and subsequently won election as the senator representing Kano Central district.