By Umar Faruk
Birnin Kebbi, Kebbi State - January 27, 2026 - (Series News Online)
A political earthquake shook Kebbi State as Alhaji Lawali Dakingari, a prominent politician from Suru Local Government Area, defected from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to the All Progressives Congress (APC) alongside hundreds of supporters. The defection, which was described as a major boost to the ruling APC, was witnessed by Governor Nasir Idris, party leaders, and representatives from all 21 Local Government Areas of the state. The event was also attended by 2,208 delegates representing all polling units in Suru Local Government Area.
Speaking at the event, Alhaji Lawali Dakingari said the decision to join the APC was taken in good faith and without any conditions. "We have joined the APC because we believe in sincerity, justice, and unity. We are here with representatives from every LGA to demonstrate that this decision reflects the collective will of our people," he said.
Dakingari revealed that members of the ADC and long-standing PDP supporters dating back to 1999 had also resolved to join the APC alongside him. He added that more supporters who could not attend the event due to short notice would soon defect to the APC, including former Local Government Chairmen and other key political stakeholders across the state.
"We believe in the leadership style of Governor Nasir Idris, whom we describe as just, compassionate, and people-oriented," Dakingari said, citing the political legacy and counsel of former Governor Sa'idu Usman Nasamu Dakingari as inspirations for the defection.
Welcoming the defectors, APC Chairman Alhaji Abubakar Kana-Zuru described the development as a major boost to the party's strength and unity. "We are one family, and there is no distinction between old and new members. We will work together to deepen peace, strengthen security, and deliver more dividends of democracy to the people of Kebbi State," he said.
Governor Nasir Idris, in his remarks, thanked Almighty Allah for the successful gathering and described the defection as a reunion anchored on shared history, mutual respect, and a common vision for Kebbi State. "Today, we are one family. There is no old or new member in the APC. By the grace of Allah, we will continue to work together to deepen peace, strengthen security, and deliver more dividends of democracy to the people of Kebbi State," the Governor said.
Idris assured the new APC members of equal treatment and called on party leaders and supporters to work collectively in mobilizing communities to support the government's development agenda. The event concluded with prayers for unity, peace, and sustained progress in Kebbi State.
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politics