Ibrahim Waiya has stated that the decision of Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf to leave the New Nigeria People’s Party (NNPP) for the All Progressives Congress (APC) is fundamentally about prioritizing the interests of the residents of Kano State rather than his own political ambitions.
In an interview with Arise News on Tuesday, Waiya refuted claims that the governor's departure represents a betrayal of the electorate, maintaining that it symbolizes a calculated approach to enhance governance within the state.
"Our defection to APC is not about political survival, it’s not about us, it’s not about serving our interests, but rather it’s about the entire interests of the people of Kano," he stated.
Waiya elaborated that ongoing internal conflicts within the NNPP, including rival leadership factions and judicial disputes, have posed significant challenges to effective governance.
"Why will you continue to stay in a party which is so much bedevilled with a lot of crises?" he questioned, emphasizing that the governor must not be mired in party disputes at the cost of public service.
He pointed out that the governor remains focused on governance and the delivery of services, highlighting that over 900 projects are currently underway in Kano, ranging from infrastructure enhancement to job creation initiatives and empowerment programs for women.
Waiya addressed worries that some supporters of the governor from the NNPP might feel disconnected, insisting that thorough discussions with party stakeholders and local leaders took place prior to the shift. "The people are very much fully convinced, and they have all in total agreement with the decision of His Excellency," he affirmed.
When asked about possible rifts within the APC, Waiya assured that prominent leaders, including those from the Ganduje faction, have expressed their support for Governor Yusuf, underscoring a collective commitment to the advancement of Kano State.
He added that frequent political defections should not be perceived as a threat to democracy but instead as part of a political landscape where the interests of the citizens are paramount.
"Democracy is about service to the people. Aligning with a party that offers a fruitful platform to implement development initiatives should not be regarded as a betrayal," Waiya remarked.
Additionally, he stressed the necessity of assessing results rather than simply party affiliations, encouraging political figures and the public to evaluate leaders based on their ability to provide essential services. He concluded, "What matters most is the convergence of ideas and the commitment to enhancing the lives of the populace, and that is precisely what Governor Yusuf is striving for."
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