Shekarau Switches Allegiance to APC, Joins Ruling Party

Malam Ibrahim Shekarau, who previously served as the governor of Kano State, has officially transitioned to the All Progressives Congress (APC) after a period of political deliberations. He made this announcement alongside Senator Bello Hayatu Gwarzo, a notable member of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), who also switched parties.

The official declaration of their move took place at a substantial gathering held at Shekarau's residence, known as Mundubawa Palace, in Kano, on Sunday.

Addressing his supporters, Shekarau stated that the decision was the outcome of comprehensive consultations and a thorough evaluation of available political pathways. He sought the consensus of the attendees, asking if anyone opposed the decision, to which the crowd responded with overwhelming approval.

This development follows closely on the heels of a visit by the National Chairman of the APC, Nentawe Yilwatda, to Shekarau and Gwarzo at the same location. The visit was part of the APC's strategy to attract key opposition figures in anticipation of upcoming elections.

During his visit, Yilwatda appealed to both leaders to return to the APC, referring to himself as a protégé in need of their counsel and political backing. He also encouraged their supporters to persuade them to rejoin the governing party for the sake of northern political unity.

At that time, Shekarau acknowledged the APC chairman's visit as a gesture of respect and commitment. However, he indicated that consultations were ongoing and a final decision had not yet been reached, emphasizing that any political alignment would prioritize the interests of Kano State.

The defection also comes amid intensified political realignments in the state, including recent meetings between Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf of Kano and Shekarau at his residence.