Ex-Governorship Candidates, Hundreds of Supporters Dump PDP, ACP for APC in Niger State
The All Progressives Congress (APC) in Niger State has received a major boost ahead of the 2027 general elections, following the defection of several prominent political figures and hundreds of their supporters from the opposition Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and the Allied Peoples’ Congress (ACP).
Among those who joined the ruling party is Alhaji Umar Nasko, a two-time governorship candidate under the PDP, who contested in the 2015 and 2019 elections. Speaking during a formal declaration event in Minna, Nasko said his decision was driven by a desire to contribute meaningfully to the state’s development under the leadership of Governor Mohammed Umar Bago.
“This is not just about politics; it’s about service and conviction. Governor Bago’s leadership has demonstrated purpose and direction, and I believe this is the right platform to make a real impact,” Nasko stated.
Also defecting to the APC is Ambassador Ahmed Musa Ibeto, former Deputy Governor of Niger State and former Nigerian Ambassador to South Africa. Ibeto, who had previously returned to the PDP after serving in the APC-led federal government, said he was convinced by the APC’s renewed vision and leadership direction.
“Governor Bago’s inclusive governance and development strides convinced me to return to the fold,” Ibeto said. “I’m confident that the APC will continue to deliver on its promises.”
The wave of defections also includes Hon. Ibrahim Egbo, a former member of the House of Representatives, and Abubakar Azozo, a former Commissioner for Water Resources in the state. Both leaders pledged to mobilize their extensive grassroots networks in support of the APC’s growth in Niger State.
In addition to high-profile politicians, hundreds of grassroots supporters from the PDP and ACP across various local government areas have also defected to the APC in recent months. In Tudunwada, Minna, more than 300 PDP supporters declared for the APC, praising Governor Bago for his performance in education, infrastructure, and rural development.
Similarly, 120 supporters from Gulu Ward in Lapai Local Government Area and another 200 from Kuchi Ward in Munya LGA also switched allegiance, citing improved security, better governance, and youth empowerment initiatives under the APC administration.
Receiving the defectors, the Niger State APC Chairman, Haliru Zakari Jikantoro, welcomed the new members and assured them of full integration into the party structure. He described the development as “a clear signal of public confidence in Governor Bago’s administration.”
“We are not just building a party; we are building a movement for progress. Our doors are open to all who are ready to serve the people,” Jikantoro said.
Analysts believe the APC’s growing strength in Niger State is a sign of shifting political alignments ahead of the 2027 polls, particularly as key opposition figures continue to rally behind the incumbent administration.
Governor Bago, who was present at some of the defection ceremonies, reiterated his commitment to inclusive governance, promising that all members—new and old—would have equal opportunities to contribute to the state’s future.
“This is a government of the people. As more join our party, our strength grows—not just in numbers but in ideas and resolve to transform Niger State,” the governor said.
With the latest wave of defections, the APC appears to be consolidating its position in Niger State as it prepares for future electoral battles.
