JIGAWA – Jigawa State Governor, Malam Umar Namadi, has likened joining the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) to boarding Prophet Noah’s Ark, declaring that anyone who wishes to remain politically relevant in the state must align with the ruling party.
The governor made the remarks while receiving the Minority Leader of the Jigawa State House of Assembly, Hon. Kabiru Ibrahim, who defected from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to the APC.
Before his defection, Ibrahim, who represents Birnin Kudu Constituency, was the only opposition lawmaker in the state Assembly.
Speaking during the reception, Governor Namadi said the APC had become the dominant political force in Jigawa, adding that remaining outside the party would amount to political irrelevance.
“Today in Jigawa, if you want to engage in politics and you are not joining the APC, you are wasting your time,” the governor said.
“The APC is like Prophet Noah’s Ark. Once it starts moving, if Allah helps you board, you have to thank the Almighty for giving you the opportunity to join.”
He attributed the party’s growing influence to what he described as the overwhelming support it continues to receive across the state.
Addressing the defecting lawmaker, Namadi said the move had effectively ended opposition representation in the Jigawa State House of Assembly.
“Your return brings to an end the opposition in the Jigawa State House of Assembly. There is no longer any opposition member. The entire Assembly is now APC,” he stated.
Explaining his decision to leave the PDP, Hon. Kabiru Ibrahim said he was inspired by the APC’s manifesto and Governor Namadi’s style of leadership.
He disclosed that he consulted with his supporters before making the move, adding that they unanimously agreed to join him, including several PDP ward and local government executives.
The lawmaker pledged to work for the continued success of the APC and to help secure victory for the party in future elections.
Also speaking, the APC Chairman in Jigawa State, Ahmad Garba, welcomed Ibrahim and other defectors, assuring them of equal opportunities and treatment alongside existing party members.
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