KATSINA, Katsina State – A significant political shift has occurred in Katsina State as a prominent Muslim cleric, Imam Nura Gwanda, led hundreds of defectors, primarily from the All Progressives Congress (APC) and the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), to the Social Democratic Party (SDP) on Sunday.
Speaking on behalf of the defectors, Imam Nura Aliyu stressed the necessity for religious leaders to engage in politics to improve the system. He urged citizens to join the SDP and support leaders with integrity who prioritize community development over personal gain.
“It is time for us to stop folding our hands and watch as politics deteriorates. We must engage in politics to make a positive change,” Imam Aliyu stated. He expressed deep frustration with the current political landscape in Katsina State, citing unfulfilled promises and increased hardship.
“We have long yearned for change in our society, but we haven’t seen it. Despite being a predominantly Muslim state, life has become increasingly difficult. Those entrusted with easing our burdens have failed us, instead creating even more hardship,” he said.
Imam Aliyu highlighted the SDP’s potential to address the state’s pressing issues, including poverty, insecurity, and hunger. He clarified that his involvement in politics is driven by a desire to serve the people, not personal ambition.
“When I look at the poverty, security challenges, and hunger that afflict even urban centres, I see the failure of our leaders who were entrusted by Almighty Allah to serve the people. These challenges have prompted us to join the SDP in pursuit of the development we need,” he explained.
The SDP Chairman in Katsina State, Bello Safana, welcomed the new members, attributing the party’s growing popularity to its transparency and commitment to justice, progress, and equity.
“The secretariat has become a hub of activity, especially with the addition of prominent figures like former Kaduna State Governor Mallam Nasir El-Rufai,” Safana said. “As of noon today, we have received 400 new members, most of whom are coming from the APC, PDP, PRP, and NNPP. The number continues to grow daily. People are leaving the ruling APC because, while they initially believed in the promises made by the party, they have been let down. The APC has failed them, and that’s why they are now turning to the SDP.”
Safana reiterated the SDP’s open-door policy and dedication to the development of Katsina State and Nigeria. The mass defection marks a significant development in the political landscape of Katsina State, hinting at potential shifts in the lead-up to the 2027 elections.
2027 Coalition Against Tinubu: Katsina Cleric Imam Nura Gwanda Leads Hundreds of Defectors from APC, PDP to SDP
