The Kebbi State chapter of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has assured its members that the party remains united despite rumours of potential defections to the All Progressives Congress (APC).
Speaking to journalists in Birnin Kebbi on Thursday, the state’s PDP Chairman, Usman Bello-Suru, dismissed claims that party members were planning to join the APC.
“In response to speculations about defections, I assure our members that the PDP remains an indivisible entity committed to its role as an opposition party in Kebbi State,” Bello-Suru stated.
He criticised meetings allegedly held by individuals attempting to sway PDP members for personal interests, adding that these actions would not weaken the party’s influence across the state’s 21 Local Government Areas.
Bello-Suru urged party supporters to remain calm and focused, assuring them that the leadership was managing the situation and would provide updates when necessary.
Consultative Meetings
The speculation arose after hundreds of Senator Adamu Aliero’s supporters, led by his brother Abba Aliero, held a consultative meeting with Kebbi Governor Nasir Idris at the Government House in Birnin Kebbi on Wednesday.
Abba Aliero told journalists, “We were invited for discussions with His Excellency, the Governor. We will consult with our grassroots supporters before making any decisions.”
Although Senator Aliero himself did not attend the meeting, several of his close allies, including Sama’ila Bui, the PDP deputy gubernatorial candidate in the 2023 elections, were present.
Context of the Rumours
Senator Aliero, who contested and won the Kebbi Central Senatorial seat under the PDP in 2023, had previously defected from the APC to the PDP before the elections. At a recent event in Birnin Kebbi, Aliero praised Governor Idris for his governance and rapid development of the state, fuelling speculation about his political alignment.
The PDP leadership remains steadfast, reiterating its commitment to unity and its opposition role in the state.