Former Senate President, Dr. Abubakar Bukola Saraki, has urged members of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) not to be discouraged by recent defections in the party, particularly in Delta State, assuring them that the PDP will emerge stronger and more united ahead of the 2027 general elections.

In a statement posted on his verified Facebook page, Saraki addressed concerns raised by party supporters and youth following the defection of top party figures, including Delta State Governor Sheriff Oborevwori, to the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC).

*”My view is that those who want to leave the PDP should leave now and let the rest of us who want to stay concentrate on rebuilding the party and refocusing it to play the role of a viable opposition that will provide a better alternative for the good people of Nigeria,”* Saraki wrote.

He emphasized the critical role of the opposition in a multi-ethnic democracy like Nigeria and warned against any attempts to impose a one-party state, describing such an idea as “dangerous” to the country’s diversity and democratic future.

It is in the interest of Nigeria and the survival of our democracy for the opposition to be vibrant and strong enough with the capacity to replace the ruling party at any point,”* he added, insisting that recent events should not demoralize PDP loyalists.

Reacting to what he described as “insincere leadership” among some PDP figures, Saraki said the current situation vindicated his earlier decision to observe events in silence. He pointed out that internal disloyalty had eroded trust within the party’s leadership ranks.

This development has vindicated the stance of people like me who have decided to remain silent and watch events unfold. I have seen that there was no sincerity with supposed leaders of the opposition,”* he said.

The former governor of Kwara State urged PDP members to view democracy as a long-term project rather than a “knock-out match,” encouraging patience, resilience, and renewed commitment to the party’s values.

“The sustenance of democracy is not a sprint. Rather, it is a marathon… 24 hours is a long time in politics and nobody can predict how the dynamics will evolve in the coming weeks and months,”* Saraki noted.

Addressing the defection of Delta State’s governor and his allies, including the 2023 PDP presidential running mate, Saraki said such moves reflect the declining ethical standards in Nigerian politics. He called for a shift from personal loyalty to strengthening political institutions.

“Yes, it is unbecoming and shocking for the running mate to the standard bearer of a leading party to abandon ship to join the ruling party. This is unprecedented… The country is experiencing a collapse of leadership values,”* he stated.

Despite the setbacks, Saraki expressed confidence in PDP’s prospects, stressing that party strength is measured not by numbers alone but by the dedication and integrity of its members. He called on youths and women to take leadership in the party’s rebuilding efforts.

“The PDP is better with fewer members who are loyal, sincere, determined, and committed to its ideals than with many who flirt with the ruling party in the shadows,”* he declared.

He concluded by assuring supporters that PDP leadership organs will convene to strategize, noting that there is still ample time to reposition the party for success in 2027.

“There is no cause for alarm. Our party members should not lose focus, hope, or determination. We should see the current development as a challenge to rebuild and refocus. Tomorrow is very bright,”* Saraki concluded.

Kano State Governor, Alhaji Abba Kabir Yusuf, has signed into law four landmark bills that establish new agencies designed to strengthen institutional frameworks and accelerate sustainable development across the state.

The announcement was made in a statement issued on Thursday by the Governor’s spokesperson, Sunusi Bature Dawakin Tofa.

The newly signed laws provide for the establishment of the following agencies:

1. Kano State Protection Agency (KASPA)

2. Kano State Signage and
Advertisement Agency (KASIAA)

3. Kano State Information and Communication Technologies Development Agency (KASITDA)

4. Kano State Small and Medium Enterprises Development Agency (KASMEDA)

These laws, which are now part of the Kano State legal framework, are expected to stimulate innovation, support small businesses, regulate signage and advertising, and enhance public protection and service delivery.

Governor Yusuf described the signing as a significant step toward realizing his administration’s vision of a modern, inclusive, and economically vibrant Kano.

He emphasized that the new agencies will play a crucial role in job creation, investment attraction, and the efficient implementation of government initiatives.

“Our mission is to lay a solid foundation for a greater Kano. These laws go beyond policy — they are key instruments of transformation that will help drive our development agenda,” the Governor stated.

He also issued a strong warning that violations of the provisions of these laws will be met with strict penalties, reaffirming his administration’s commitment to upholding the rule of law and ensuring compliance.

The establishment of these agencies reflects Governor Yusuf’s continued efforts to reform public institutions, improve governance, and position Kano as a leading center for innovation, entrepreneurship, and sustainable growth.

Dr. Abdullahi Umar Ganduje, the National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), has officially received prominent members of the New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP) who have defected to the APC. The announcement was made through a statement shared by Aminu Dahiru, Special Assistant to Dr. Ganduje, on his Facebook page.

Among the notable figures welcomed into the APC fold are Senator Abdurrahman Kawu Sumaila, representing Kano South; Rt. Hon. Kabiru Alhassan Rurum, a member of the House of Representatives for Rano/Kibiya/Bunkure constituencies; and Dr. Baffa Bichi, the former Secretary to the Kano State Government (SSG). Also joining the APC are Hon. Badamasi Ayuba, a former member of the House of Representatives for Danbatta/Makoda constituencies.

Other defectors include Hon. Abdullahi Sani Rogo, Rt. Hon. Zubairu Hamza Masu, Hon. Muhammad Diggol, Hon. Sha’aban Ibrahim Sharada, and Hon. Abbas Sani Abbas, further strengthening the APC’s political base in Kano State.

Dr. Ganduje expressed his enthusiasm for the new members, emphasizing the importance of unity and collaboration within the party. The defection of these influential politicians is seen as a strategic move to bolster the APC’s presence and influence in Kano State ahead of upcoming political engagements.

The statement highlighted the APC’s commitment to inclusivity and its readiness to welcome individuals dedicated to the party’s vision and goals. With the addition of these prominent figures, the APC aims to consolidate its position as a leading political force in the region.

This development marks a shift in Kano’s political landscape, as the APC continues to attract key players from rival parties, further solidifying its dominance in the state.