By Suleiman Ibrahim, Abuja
Senator Aminu Waziri Tambuwal, the former Governor of Sokoto State, has criticized recent political defections in the Northwest, asserting that they are motivated by personal interests rather than genuine public service. Speaking to journalists following the inaugural Zonal Executive Council Meeting of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) Northwest in Kaduna on Saturday, Tambuwal expressed his disapproval of those who have aligned themselves with the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC).
“Defections occur for various reasons, but I believe they are largely driven by self-serving motives, what I refer to as ‘stomach infrastructure,’ rather than the welfare of the people,” Tambuwal stated.
He emphasized that any politician with a sense of integrity would refrain from joining the APC, especially in light of the current economic challenges and the perceived failures of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration. “Given the prevailing economic hardship and the underwhelming performance of the Tinubu government, a conscientious politician would not consider joining the APC,” he asserted.
Tambuwal further criticized the APC-led federal government for its lack of focus, compassion, and direction. He urged opposition parties to unite and strategize for the upcoming 2027 elections, aiming to provide a viable alternative for Nigerians.
“There is little to attract anyone to the APC beyond personal gain. Those of us committed to the service of our nation must collaborate to ensure that by 2027, we can replace this administration that has let down the Nigerian people,” he added.
The PDP Northwest also reaffirmed its dedication to reclaiming power in the 2027 elections, highlighting the importance of unity and strategic mobilization. A communiqué issued at the conclusion of the meeting, read by PDP Northwest Chairman Senator Bello Hayatu Gwarzo, emphasized the party’s determination to assume a leadership role in the country.
“The PDP in the Northwest must reclaim its rightful position in national leadership by providing quality governance. It is imperative that we swiftly resolve any internal conflicts at the national level, as Nigerians are looking to the PDP for direction,” the communiqué stated.
Despite the challenges faced during the 2023 general elections, the party reiterated its strong grassroots support and the growing national inclination towards the PDP, stressing that unity is crucial for success in 2027. “We call for solidarity among party members to address our challenges and secure victory in 2027. Everyone must contribute to reclaiming leadership in our states and at the national level,” the communiqué concluded.
The high-profile meeting was attended by prominent PDP figures, including former Kaduna State Governor Senator Ahmed Makarfi, former Kano State Governor Senator Ibrahim Shekarau, PDP governorship candidate for Jigawa Mustapha Sule Lamido, Senator Lado Dan Marke, Hon. Isa Ashiru Kudan, Hon. Ango Abdullahi, and the PDP National Youth Leader, among others.
