By: John Bassey, Kebbi.

Alhaji Lawali Dakingari, a prominent political figure from Suru Local Government Area has led hundreds of his supporters to defect from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to the All Progressives Congress (APC).

Governor Nasir Idris (Kauran Gwandu) received Alhaji Lawali Dakin-Gari and his large delegation at the Government House, Birnin Kebbi, in an event that attracted party leaders and representatives from all 21 Local Government Areas of the state. Also in attendance were 2,208 delegates representing all polling units in Suru local Government Area, symbolizing a broad-based grassroots nature of the political movement.

Speaking at the event, Alhaji Lawali Dakingari said the decision to join the APC was taken in good faith and without any conditions. He explained that the defection was inspired by the political legacy and counsel of former Governor Sa’idu Usman Nasamu Dakingari, as well as the leadership style of Governor Nasir Idris, whom he described as just, compassionate, and people-oriented.

“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. He added that members of the ADC and long-standing PDP supporters dating back to 1999 had also resolved to join the APC alongside with him.

Alhaji Lawali further disclosed 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.

Welcoming the defectors, Alhaji Abubakar Kana-Zuru, Chairman of the APC in Kebbi State, described the development as a major boost to the party’s strength and unity.

He emphasized unity, inclusiveness, and the importance of party registration and voter enrollment ahead of future elections, stressing that there would be no discrimination between old and new members.

In his remarks, Governor Nasir Idris thanked Almighty Allah for the successful gathering and described the defection as a reunion anchored on shared history history, mutual respect and a common vision for Kebbi State.

He praised Alhaji Lawali Dakin-Gari’s leadership qualities and reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to fairness, justice, and inclusive development across the State.

“Today, we are one family There is no old or new members 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.

The Governor 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.