Former Kano State governor, Malam Ibrahim Shekarau, has officially left his political party to join the All Progressives Congress (APC) following weeks of consultations and behind-the-scenes negotiations.
He made the switch alongside Senator Bello Hayatu Gwarzo, a prominent figure in the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), during a gathering held on Sunday at Shekarau’s residence, widely known as Mundubawa Palace in Kano.
Speaking before supporters and political associates, Shekarau said the decision was reached after broad consultations and a careful review of available political choices.
“We have examined all options and arrived at a collective decision. Do you all agree?” he asked, inviting dissenting voices, if any.
The audience responded in unison, signaling approval of the move.
The development comes days after the APC National Chairman, Nentawe Yilwatda, paid a visit to Shekarau and Gwarzo at the same residence in a move seen as part of ongoing efforts to strengthen the party’s influence ahead of future elections.
During that visit, Yilwatda appealed to both leaders to return to the APC, describing himself as a “son” seeking their mentorship and political backing.
He also encouraged their supporters to support the reconciliation effort in the interest of unity among northern political actors.
In response at the time, Shekarau commended the APC chairman’s gesture, describing the visit as respectful and politically significant, while noting that consultations were still ongoing and no final decision had been made.
He stressed that any political alignment would prioritise the interests of Kano State.
The latest defection also follows recent political engagements involving Kano State governor, Abba Kabir Yusuf, who visited Shekarau at his residence, as political alignments continue to shift in the state.