APC Kano Gains Political Heavyweights as Shekarau, Gwarzo, Bagobiri Defect from PDP

The Kano State chapter of the All Progressives Congress (APC) has formally welcomed three prominent political figures Senator Ibrahim Shekarau, Senator Bello Hayatu Gwarzo, and Alhaji Yahaya Umar Bagobiri—into its ranks, marking a significant shift in the state’s political landscape.

Senator Ibrahim Shekarau, a former governor of Kano State and one of the state’s most respected elder statesmen, was officially received into the APC at a grand ceremony held in his Giginyu Ward, Nasarawa Local Government Area. The event drew top party leaders and supporters, highlighting the importance of his defection from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).

At the reception, Shekarau was presented with his APC membership card, symbolizing his formal entry into the party.

Party leaders described his return as a major boost, given his vast experience in governance and public service.

Alongside Shekarau, former Kano North Senator, Bello Hayatu Gwarzo, and seasoned grassroots politician, Yahaya Umar Bagobiri, also defected from the PDP to the APC. Their move is widely seen as a strategic realignment that strengthens the APC’s structure ahead of future political contests.

Shekarau, who served as Kano State governor from 2003 to 2011, is credited with significant reforms in the education sector and later served as Nigeria’s Minister of Education.

Gwarzo, a long-serving lawmaker, represented Kano North in the Senate for 16 years and held key leadership roles, including Chief Whip. Bagobiri, on the other hand, brings decades of grassroots political experience and party administration at both state and national levels.

The APC described their defection as a testament to the party’s growing appeal and its commitment to inclusive governance under the leadership of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

According to the party, the entry of the three political heavyweights will enhance its capacity, deepen its grassroots reach, and promote unity within Kano’s political space.

The party also assured the new members of full integration and equal opportunities to contribute to its programmes and policies.

APC leadership in Kano called on party supporters to warmly receive the new entrants and work collectively towards strengthening the party and delivering good governance to the people of the state.