Politics
Rabiu Gambo Bakori leads defections as Ganduje flags off LG election campaign in Katsina
DDM News

Katsina State witnessed a significant political shift on January 26, 2025, as Dr. Abdullahi Umar Ganduje, the National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), officially launched the party’s local government election campaign.
Diaspora digital media (DDM) gathered that the event, held in Ingawa Local Government Area, also marked a major defection of political heavyweights, including the former State Chairman of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP), Alhaji Rabiu Gambo Bakori.
Bakori, alongside other prominent political figures, left their respective parties to join the APC, signaling a strong endorsement of the ruling party’s policies and vision.
The defection was highlighted by the welcoming of over 40,000 new card-carrying members from opposition parties, a move seen as a clear indication of the growing support for the APC in Katsina State.
In his speech, Ganduje expressed confidence in the APC’s leadership and its continued commitment to improving the socio-political landscape of the country.
He attributed the influx of defectors, particularly Rabiu Gambo Bakori, to the proven success and prosperity of the APC government under President Bola Tinubu and the state’s administration led by Governor Dikko Umaru Radda.
Ganduje also reassured the new members that they would receive equal treatment and opportunities within the party, reinforcing the APC’s inclusive nature.
Governor Radda, in his address, praised the defection of prominent figures, including Bakori, and described it as a positive development for the state’s future.
He emphasized that the APC was committed to conducting free, fair, and credible elections, which would truly reflect the will of the people.
Radda also called on the electorate to throw their support behind APC candidates in both the upcoming local government elections scheduled for February 2025 and the 2027 general elections.
Rabiu Gambo Bakori, who spoke on behalf of the defectors, outlined the reasons for his defection.
He cited the remarkable leadership of Governor Radda, which has led to significant development in the state, as the driving factor behind his decision.
Bakori reiterated his commitment to collaborating with Radda to further the state’s development and bring about meaningful change for its people.
He acknowledged that the APC’s policies, which prioritize growth and prosperity, were in alignment with the aspirations of the people of Katsina.
The event, which attracted thousands of supporters, also saw the presence of many influential political figures from across the state.
Among those in attendance were Alhaji Ibrahim Kabir Masari, the Senior Special Assistant to the President on Political and Other Matters, members of the APC National Working Committee, the State Deputy Governor Malam Faruk Lawal Jobe, and former Governor Barr. Ibrahim Shema.
Senator Abdulaziz Musa Yar’adua, Senator Muntari Dandutse, and Senator Nasiru Sani Zango also graced the occasion, further solidifying the APC’s hold on the political landscape of the state.
Additionally, former Minister of Aviation, Senator Hadi Sirika, and several members of the State Executive Council and former federal and state legislators were present, highlighting the broad political backing the APC enjoys in the region.
The event was seen as a strong indication of the APC’s dominance in Katsina and a statement of intent for the upcoming elections.
Rabiu Gambo Bakori’s defection, in particular, was viewed as a strategic move that could reshape the political dynamics in Katsina.
Bakori, who was a leading figure in the PDP, brings with him a wealth of political experience and influence, which is expected to play a crucial role in the APC’s efforts to strengthen its position ahead of the local government elections.
His decision to join the APC underscores the growing momentum for the party, as it seeks to solidify its grip on power in Katsina.
The rally was not only a political event but also a demonstration of the people’s support for the APC and its leadership.
The massive turnout, which included party stalwarts, residents, and the electorate from various parts of Katsina, sent a clear message to both local and national observers about the growing strength of the APC in the state.
As the APC gears up for the February local government elections, Rabiu Gambo Bakori’s defection is expected to have a significant impact on the party’s campaign strategy.
His influence in Katsina’s political circles is likely to bolster the APC’s chances of securing key victories in the upcoming elections.
The party’s leadership, including Ganduje and Governor Radda, will no doubt leverage Bakori’s experience and political clout to mobilize voters and ensure a strong performance at the polls.
For the people of Katsina, the defection of Rabiu Gambo Bakori and other prominent political figures marks a turning point in the state’s political history.
The APC, under the guidance of Ganduje and Radda, is positioning itself as the party of choice for those seeking progress, development, and good governance.
The campaign event in Ingawa served as a reminder of the power of political realignment and the impact it can have on shaping the future of a state.
In conclusion, the launch of the APC’s local government election campaign in Katsina and the defection of Rabiu Gambo Bakori and other political figures represent a major milestone for the party.
The overwhelming support for the APC, as demonstrated by the reception of new members and the attendance of key political figures, signals the party’s readiness to face the upcoming elections with confidence.
The people of Katsina are looking to the APC to continue its efforts in bringing about the positive changes that have already begun under Governor Radda’s leadership.
With the backing of influential figures like Bakori, the APC is poised for a strong showing in the local government elections and beyond.
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