APC Gains Momentum as Barau Welcomes Shekarau, Gwarzo After PDP Defection. T
he Deputy President of the Senate, Barau Jibrin, has welcomed former Kano State Governor Ibrahim Shekarau and ex-Senate Chief Whip Bello Hayatu Gwarzo into the All Progressives Congress (APC).
The two political heavyweights recently defected from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), citing persistent internal leadership crises within the opposition party.
In a statement issued through his media aide, Barau described their defection as a major boost to the APC’s strength, especially as political activities begin to build toward the 2027 general elections.
He praised both leaders as experienced politicians, stating that their return to the APC reflects alignment with progressive ideals and strengthens the party’s grassroots support base.
According to Barau, the ruling party is well-positioned to secure victories in future elections, particularly in Kano State, which remains a key political stronghold.
Defection Driven by PDP Crisis
Ibrahim Shekarau and Bello Hayatu Gwarzo left the PDP after expressing concerns over ongoing leadership disputes and internal instability within the party.
Their move to the APC is seen as part of a broader trend of defections from opposition parties, signaling shifting political alliances ahead of the next election cycle.
Implications for 2027 Elections
Barau noted that the growing number of defections into the APC reflects increasing confidence in the leadership of Bola Ahmed Tinubu and the party’s governance direction.
He expressed optimism that with strengthened unity and continued grassroots mobilization, the APC will maintain dominance in Kano and perform strongly in the 2027 general elections.
The defection of Shekarau and Gwarzo is expected to reshape the political landscape in Kano State, as parties begin early realignments and coalition-building efforts ahead of the polls.
