Over 200 Jigawa APC Members Defect to PDP

No fewer than 289 members of the All Progressives Congress (APC) have officially defected to the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Sakwaya Ward, Dutse Local Government Area of Jigawa State.

The defection, which took place on Friday at the PDP ward office, was led by the party’s deputy state chairman, Umar Danjani, who represented the state chairman in welcoming the new members.

Danjani described the mass defection as a significant boost to PDP’s strength and unity ahead of the 2027 general elections. He assured the defectors of the party’s full support as they integrate, pledging greater grassroots mobilisation and inclusiveness.

“We welcome you with open arms and promise to work tirelessly to address your concerns as we build a stronger Jigawa together,” he said.
“Our doors are always open to anyone committed to the progress of Jigawa. With your addition, we are closer to achieving a united front that will bring lasting development to the state.”

Also speaking at the event, Mamuda Sakwaya, a prominent PDP stalwart and ward leader, expressed delight over the new members’ decision, describing it as a milestone for the PDP in Sakwaya and Jigawa State at large. He stressed that the development reflects the party’s growing influence at the grassroots level, which he said was critical for electoral success.

The leader of the defectors, Mrs. Harira Sakwaya, wife of the APC ward chairman, openly regretted her former political alignment, declaring that joining the APC had been a “disappointment.”

“We are grateful to Sule Lamido, who has done so much for Sakwaya and the women here  things we cannot repay,” she added.

She lamented that the APC failed to meet the expectations of its members, a factor she said pushed many to seek a better political future in the PDP.

Of the 289 defectors, 273 were women and 16 men, further highlighting the significant participation of women in the political shift.