The Coalition of All Progressive Congress (APC) Support Group in Sokoto state Wednesday announced their defection to the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).
Stating reasons for their action, leader of the group, Malam Isah Jabbi said the poor, incompetent self- serving leadership and disregard for youth inclusion and participation amongst other issues prompted the decision.
“On behalf of my self, political associates and teeming supporters, I want to welcome you all to this all important press briefing.
“All keen followers of political events in Sokoto state will bear witness that we as a team, have contributed very greatly in our own humble means towards the development and entrenchment of the APC as a responsible and viable political alternative or opposition in Sokoto state for which we have willingly and pleasantly or otherwise made monumental sacrifices.
“However, despite our individual and collective commitments, the so-called powers that be who have held the APC by the jugular in Sokoto state continued to sabotage and malign our efforts as a result of which we have witnessed these key aberrations unworthy of a respectable political platform.
“Consequently, after wide consultations, and in order to conserve the integrity and political principles which the APC no longer reflects our wishes to exemplify, we unanimously decided to end our journey with the APC.
“Subsequently, we sat down and reflected on the next line of action and platform to adopt in order to further our sincere and selfless commitment to the overall development of Sokoto state and its people.
“Our very objective desk and field review of other likely alternative political platforms led us to the conclusion that the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) under its state leader, His Excellency Rt. Hon. Aminu Waziri Tambuwal is the favorite masses choice and as grassroots politicians we have thus resolved to pitch our tent where the overwhelming majority of our people are camped,” Jabbi said.
He said the decision to move out of APC to PDP, “was strengthened by the glaring evidence before all well- meaning Sakkwatawa such as, unprecedented level of youth inclusion in politics and governance by appointing youth into key political offices and nomination to vie for top elective offices based on merit. Constant payment of scholarship allowances to students within and outside the country, to the tune of over 8billion naira.
“The sponsoring of over 200 hundred students to study medicine and allied courses abroad some of whom have already returned back to the country. Sponsoring over 10,000 students to study science and related courses in leading universities within the country. And the construction of two fly-overs in strategic locations in the state to ease movement of motorists, amongst many.
“Respected honorable colleagues, family, friends and associates home and away, It is our pleasure to once again formally announce to you our defection from the old Brigade APC to the adequately fortified and battle ready PDP along with all of our supporters and well-wishers.”