The All Progressives Congress (APC) in Bauchi State has firmly dismissed growing concerns over the recent defection of several prominent members to the Peoples Redemption Party (PRP), insisting the party remains united and strategically positioned for the 2027 general elections. The development follows the exit of Senator Shehu Buba Umar, who represented Bauchi South Senatorial District, just days after stepping down from the APC governorship primary. Alongside him, other key figures including Samaila Kaila Dahuwa, Rabilu Bala Kashuri, and Shehu Aliyu Musa also left the APC, taking their supporters with them. Despite these departures, the APC maintains that they do not reflect a broader shift in political momentum or party strength within the state.
In a statement issued on Thursday by the party’s State Publicity Secretary, Shehu Dauda Mohammed, the APC emphasized that every individual has the right to choose their political affiliation. However, the party cautioned against misrepresenting the exit of a few members as evidence of internal collapse or declining influence. “The departure of a handful of persons should not be exaggerated into evidence of the weakening of the APC or presented as proof of a change in the political direction of Bauchi State,” the statement read. The party stressed that its strength lies in its resilient structures, widespread grassroots presence, and continued connection with the electorate.
According to the APC, the members who defected had already distanced themselves from the party’s collective decisions, discipline, and political direction. Their formal exit, the party noted, merely confirmed what had already become evident. The APC reiterated that these defections do not signify a movement of its organizational structure or any significant erosion of its support base. “The departure of a few disgruntled individuals cannot be mistaken for the movement of the people,” the statement added, underscoring the party’s confidence in its foundation.
The APC further affirmed that its structures remain fully operational across all 20 local government areas and 323 wards in Bauchi State. The party’s focus, it stated, is on securing Bauchi for the re-election of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, reclaiming the Government House from the opposition, and winning seats in the National Assembly, State House of Assembly, and other elective positions in the 2027 elections. It urged members and supporters to remain united and to intensify grassroots engagement to strengthen its position ahead of the polls.
As political dynamics continue to evolve in Bauchi, the APC’s response highlights its determination to maintain stability and momentum despite internal challenges. The party’s stance suggests that while defections may draw attention, they are not expected to derail its broader electoral ambitions in the state.
Leave a Comment