The political landscape in Southern Kaduna has shifted significantly as Hon. Dan Amos, the member representing the Jema’a/Sanga Federal Constituency, officially defected from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) yesterday.
He cited the necessity of aligning with both state and federal governments to foster development in the region.
At a press conference held yesterday in Kafanchan, ahead of his formal reception alongside Senator Sunday Marshall Katung of Kaduna South – who is also expected to defect today – Amos revealed that his decision followed extensive consultations with community leaders, faith-based organisations, professionals, and traditional institutions throughout his constituency.
He explained that the PDP, which was once a dominant political force in Kaduna, has weakened due to “prolonged internal crises”, resulting in substantial defections and a loss of grassroots appeal nationwide.
“We took time to engage our constituents at all levels, from party structures to religious and professional bodies, and the collective decision was that, in the interest of our people, we should seek an alternative platform,” Amos stated.
“It became easier to identify with the APC due to the visible commitment of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and Governor Uba Sani towards the inclusion and development of Southern Kaduna.”
The lawmaker praised President Tinubu for appointing a local indigene, General Christopher Musa, as Chief of Defence Staff, and for approving crucial federal projects in the region, including the Federal University of Applied Sciences and the Federal Medical Centre.
He also commended Governor Uba Sani for his “inclusive governance style, infrastructural expansion, and open-door policy”, which he claimed have fostered unity and instilled a sense of belonging in every part of the state.
“Our decision was facilitated by the President’s inclusive leadership and the Governor’s developmental initiatives. We believe that aligning with the government at the centre will expedite further benefits for our people,” he added.
Amos dismissed suggestions that his defection was motivated by personal political gain, describing it instead as “a divine decision” influenced by conviction and the collective interest of Southern Kaduna.
“It is not about personal ambition. It is about positioning our region to benefit from the dividends of democracy. I am convinced that history will be favourable to us for taking this bold step at this critical juncture,” he remarked.
The federal lawmaker, who is the chairman of the House Committee on Services, assured his constituents that his transition to the APC would not diminish his commitment to service delivery, emphasising that he was joining the ruling party to “add value, not to displace anyone.”
He expressed optimism that, with ongoing collaboration between the people and the government, Southern Kaduna would continue to attract development in infrastructure, education, and security.
The formal reception for Amos, Senator Katung, and other defectors from the PDP is scheduled for today in Kafanchan and would be attended by Vice President Kashim Shettima, speaker of the House of Representatives, Rt. Hon. Tajudeen Abbas and key APC leaders from across the country.
Their defection signifies a major realignment in Kaduna’s political dynamics, marking the end of over 25 years of PDP dominance in the southern region of the state.
