A former House of Representatives aspirant on the platform of the Africa Democratic Congress, Alhaji Bashar Geda, has defected to the All Progressives Congress alongside party executives and thousands of his supporters in Kebbi State.
The defection took place on Saturday at Nasarawa I Ward, where APC leaders formally received the new members into the ruling party.
Speaking at the event, the APC State Chairman, represented by the party’s Vice Chairman for Kebbi Central, Alhaji Shehu Idris, described the move as a significant boost to the party and welcomed the defectors.
He assured them of equal opportunities and full participation in party affairs.
“The APC remains a party committed to the welfare and interests of the masses. We welcome you into our fold and assure you of fairness, inclusion and equal opportunities,” he said.
Addressing supporters, Bashar Geda said his decision to leave the ADC was motivated by the developmental achievements of Governor Nasir Idris across the state.
According to him, the governor’s performance convinced him and his supporters to align with the APC and contribute to the administration’s success.
“I have seen the good work you have done for the people of Kebbi State. In view of this, I, alongside my supporters, have resolved to support you and ensure the success of your administration,” Geda stated.
The former aspirant had contested in the ADC primary election for the House of Representatives seat representing the Bunza, Birnin Kebbi and Kalgo Federal Constituency.
Responding, Governor Nasir Idris expressed appreciation to the defectors for joining the APC, assuring them that they would be treated fairly within the party.
He described Bashar Geda as a political son and pledged continued support for him.
“You have taken a courageous decision to join our party. I assure you that you will not regret this step. Bashar Geda remains our son, and we will continue to support him politically,” the governor said.
As part of the visit, Governor Idris also paid a courtesy call on Bashar’s father, Alhaji Abubakar Geda, at his residence in Badariya.
During the meeting, the governor reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to inclusiveness and equitable governance.
In his remarks, Alhaji Abubakar Geda pledged his family’s support for Governor Idris’ second-term ambition and the APC’s electoral prospects in the state.
“Let me state categorically that my family and political associates will stand firmly behind your second-term ambition and ensure that the APC wins the forthcoming general elections in the state,” he said.
Governor Idris thanked the family for their endorsement and reiterated his administration’s determination to deliver more development projects and improve the welfare of the people of Kebbi State.
