Senator Kawu Samaila Defects to APC, Citing Constituency Welfare
Amid growing political re-alignments in Kano State, Senator Kawu Samaila, who represents Kano South Senatorial District, has officially defected from the New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP) to the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC).
The announcement, which comes after days of speculation, was confirmed by the senator in a public statement shared by political analyst Imran Muhammad.
Senator Samaila acknowledged the widespread rumors about his defection, stating, “Yes, it is true the rumors regarding my defection are accurate. All politics is local, and my primary concern has always been, and remains, the welfare of my immediate constituency. I am resolutely determined to advance the lives of my people, ensuring their needs are met and their future is secured.”
The senator’s move is seen as a strategic alignment with the APC at both state and national levels, as the party continues to consolidate power ahead of upcoming elections. In a photo accompanying the announcement, Senator Samaila is seen warmly engaging with prominent APC figures, signaling his formal acceptance into the party.
His defection is expected to reshape political dynamics in Kano State, particularly in the southern district, which has been a critical base for the NNPP. It also marks a potential weakening of the NNPP’s influence in the region, as it loses a high-profile legislator to the APC.
Political observers suggest that the move could be motivated by both ideological and strategic interests, especially with increasing pressure on federal lawmakers to deliver developmental dividends to their constituencies. As the APC continues to welcome defectors from opposition parties, the ruling party may be seeking to bolster its legislative dominance and grassroots reach.
Senator Samaila’s decision is already sparking conversations about the future of the NNPP in Kano State, a region where it once held significant sway. Whether this marks the beginning of a broader wave of defections remains to be seen.
