Shekarau, Gwarzo Dump PDP for APC in Kano Political Shake-Up

Shekarau, Gwarzo Dump PDP for APC in Kano Political Shake-Up

Former Kano State governor, Ibrahim Shekarau, has formally defected from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to the All Progressives Congress (APC), in a move that underscores deepening political realignments ahead of the 2027 general elections.

Shekarau announced his defection on Sunday at a well-attended gathering held at his residence, popularly known as Mundubawa Palace in Kano, alongside Senator Bello Hayatu Gwarzo, a prominent PDP chieftain.

Addressing loyalists and political associates, Shekarau said the decision followed extensive consultations and careful evaluation of political developments in the state and beyond.

“We have weighed all the options and arrived at this collective resolution. Do you all agree?” he asked, prompting a unanimous endorsement from supporters present at the meeting.

The defection comes amid intensified efforts by the APC to consolidate its influence in Kano and the wider North-West region. It follows a recent visit by the APC National Chairman, Nentawe Yilwatda, who met with Shekarau and Gwarzo at the same residence in a bid to woo them back to the ruling party.

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During the visit, Yilwatda appealed for their return, describing himself as their “son” in need of guidance and political backing, while also urging their supporters to align with the APC in the interest of unity among northern stakeholders.

Shekarau had at the time acknowledged the visit as a mark of respect but maintained that consultations were ongoing, stressing that any final decision would be guided by the best interests of Kano State.

The latest move also comes on the heels of political engagements involving the Kano State governor, Abba Kabir Yusuf, who recently visited Shekarau, fuelling speculation over shifting alliances and strategic positioning ahead of 2027.

Political observers say Shekarau’s return to the APC is significant given his longstanding influence in Kano politics and his history within the party. A founding member of the APC and former minister, he has previously moved between major political platforms, reflecting the fluid nature of alliances in the state.

His defection, alongside that of Gwarzo, is expected to strengthen the APC’s structure in Kano while posing a setback for the PDP, which has faced internal challenges and defections in recent times.

The development highlights the early stages of 2027 election realignments, with key political actors repositioning across party lines as competition gradually builds.

Analysts believe more defections and alliances may emerge in the coming months as parties intensify consultations and grassroots mobilisation ahead of the next electoral cycle.

Shekarau, Gwarzo Dump PDP for APC in Kano Political Shake-Up