Sokoto, Nigeria – In a significant political shift, senior officials of the Sokoto State Traders’ Associations have defected from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), signaling a major boost for the administration of Governor Ahmed Aliyu.
The defection, which took place on Tuesday, was led by the Chairman of the Traders’ Associations, Alhaji Chika Sarkin-Gishiri, and was formally received by Senator Aliyu Wamakko (APC – Sokoto Central) at his residence in Sokoto.
Describing the event as a “big political advantage” for the APC, Senator Wamakko welcomed the new members, assuring them of full inclusion and equal rights within the party. “There is no reason not to carry all the traders along now that you have decided to work with the government. We believe that a lot will be achieved,” he said.
Senator Wamakko also reiterated the administration’s commitment to completing the renovation of the Sokoto Central Market, which was previously ravaged by fire. He outlined ongoing and future business support initiatives aimed at empowering local traders, including financial assistance packages to stimulate small and medium enterprises and drive socio-economic growth in the state.
Addressing lingering concerns over water scarcity in the state, the senator blamed the previous PDP administration for the dismantling of key water infrastructure. He assured residents that the current government is working to strengthen the capacity of the State Water Board to provide sustainable access to clean water.
Speaking on behalf of the defecting traders, Alhaji Sarkin-Gishiri described the move as a “huge political loss” for the PDP and said the association was aligning with the APC due to shared goals for development. “We are now ready to work together with the government to promote policies that will liberate the people,” he stated.
Also lending his voice, Alhaji Ladan Almustapha, former chairman of the association and current Chairman of the Sokoto State Chamber of Commerce, lauded Senator Wamakko’s leadership and confirmed that the decision to defect was unanimous.
“The entire association stands united in its decision to support the administration of Governor Ahmed Aliyu to build a stronger and more resilient Sokoto State,” Almustapha affirmed.
The development marks a significant realignment in Sokoto State’s political landscape as the APC celebrates its second year in power under Governor Aliyu’s leadership.
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