Members of the Coalition of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Sokoto State have formally announced their decamping to the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), citing several reasons.
The group in a press release signed by its chairman, Malam Isah Jabbi, and made available to newsmen decried poor, incompetent and self-serving leadership; imposition of candidates at all levels; disregard for youth inclusion and participation as some of the reasons for leaving the party.
Alcaraz eases into Swiss Indoors quarterfinals
Medvedev, Tsitsipas ease into Vienna last 16
In the statement, Jabbi said: “All keen followers of political events in Sokoto State will bear witness that we as a team have contributed greatly in our own humble means towards the development and entrenchment of the APC as a responsible and viable political alternative or opposition in Sokoto State for which we have willingly and pleasantly or otherwise made monumental sacrifices.
“However, despite our individual and collective commitments, the so-called powers that be who have held the APC by the jugular in Sokoto State continued to sabotage and malign our efforts.
“Consequently, after wide consultations and in order to conserve our integrity and political principles, which the APC no longer reflects or wishes to exemplify, we unanimously decided to end our journey with the APC.”
Stating reasons for joining the PDP, the group said, “Our very objective desk and field review of other likely alternative political platforms led us to the conclusion that the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) under its state leader, His Excellency Rt. Hon. Aminu Waziri Tambuwal is the favourite masses’ choice and as grassroots politicians, we have thus resolved to pitch our tent where the overwhelming majority of our people are camped.”
They said their position was strengthened by the “glaring evidence before all well-meaning Sakkwatawa such as; an unprecedented level of youth inclusion in politics and governance by appointing youth into key political offices and nomination to vie for top elective offices based on merit; coordinated and results-driven delivery of governance; zero tolerance for political thuggery, intimidation, witch hunting, victimization and rascality; ongoing monumental infrastructural development across the state.
“Respected honourable colleagues, family, friends and associates home and away, It is our pleasure to once again formally announce to you our defection from the old brigade APC to the adequately fortified and battle-ready PDP along with all of our supporters and well-wishers,” the statement said.