…PDP has a serious cancer, says Kano ex-governor
Former Kano State Governor, Ibrahim Shekarau, on Wednesday hinted at a possible exit from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), saying the option remains under consideration.
Shekarau disclosed this during a visit by the National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Nentawe Yilwatda, to his residence in Kano, as part of the ruling party’s moves to strengthen its foothold in the North.
Senator Hayatu Gwarzo was also at the meeting, where the APC chairman urged him to align with the party.
During the engagement, Yilwatda stressed the importance of unity among political leaders in the North, describing the region as central to Nigeria’s political dynamics. He commended Shekarau as a respected figure whose experience and leadership remain valuable, urging him to join the APC.
The APC chairman also referenced ongoing federal initiatives, including infrastructure projects and appointments involving individuals from the region, as part of efforts to promote development.
He further underscored the need for cohesion among northern stakeholders while advocating continuity in the current political arrangement, noting the importance of maintaining balance in national leadership.
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“We are here to ensure Kano is settled, to ask that you, being one of the pillars in Nigerian politics, with followers across Nigeria, the APC needs you.
“The APC and Mr President need leaders like you (Shekarau) to help, support, and build the party to win elections next year.
“Let us all come to the APC. Your son (Yilwatda) in the APC is pleading; I cannot do it alone. Together, we can build a very strong and formidable platform to help the North,” the national chairman said.
Malam Shekarau, while grateful for the visit, lamented internal challenges within the PDP and hinted at consulting stakeholders before making his next move public.
Shekarau appreciated the APC national chairman for finding time to visit him, describing the move as a show of respect, seriousness, and commitment.
“You have come to us; you could have sent someone or even met me in Abuja, but you came yourself,” Shekarau said.
Shekarau further stated that the visit was well-timed, coming as he was reviewing his political future with his associates, taking cognisance of internal challenges within the opposition parties.
“In two days or the next couple of days, I will make my position known,” he said.
He added, “You have come at a time we are also searching for a solution to the cancer that has infected us in the PDP; we don’t know whether it is a real cancer or not.”
The former governor, however, said the decision would not be taken right there, but assured consultations were ongoing.
“In a couple of days, you will hear from us whether we will join you or not, but I assure you that you will hear from us,” he added.
Shekarau, however, said he will not act alone, as any decision would be guided by the overall interest of his followers and political associates. “Whatever we do will be put on the scale of Kano first.”
“Let me assure you that my movement alongside the Shura Council and all other supporters, friends, and well-wishers is Kano first -anything in the interest of Kano is where I stand.
“There is a terrible turmoil in the PDP political environment. PDP has been infected by a very serious cancer, whether deliberate or real, and we had commenced diagnoses and research for treatment long before now.
“We had set up committees x-raying various political parties. If the scale tilts towards you, it is God, and if not, still God. We shall let you know in a few days.”
