Defections From PDP Not In Public Interest – Tambuwal

Former governor of Sokoto State and current senator representing Sokoto South, Aminu Waziri Tambuwal, has dismissed the wave of political defections in the Northwest, saying those defecting were driven by what he termed ‘stomach infrastructure’ and personal gains rather than the interest of the people.

Speaking with newsmen after the maiden zonal executive council meeting of the PDP Northwest in Kaduna yesterday, Senator Tambuwal criticised the defectors who aligned with the ruling APC, arguing that their motives were not rooted in public service.

“People leave parties for different reasons. But what I have observed is that defections are not based on the interest of the people but on personal gains, what I call ‘stomach infrastructure.

“If you are a politician with conscience, you wouldn’t join the APC given the current economic hardship and the poor performance of the Tinubu administration,” Tambuwal stated.

He criticised the APC-led federal government, accusing it of lacking focus, compassion and direction, just as he called on all opposition forces to unite and strategise for the 2027 elections to provide an alternative for Nigerians.

For him, there is nothing appealing in the APC beyond personal benefits, stressing that those of them who believe in this country and in service of the people must come together to ensure that by 2027, they remove this administration which he said had failed Nigerians.

Meanwhile, the PDP Northwest has reaffirmed its commitment to reclaim power in 2027, emphasising the need for unity and strategic mobilisation.

A communiqué issued at the end of the meeting read by the PDP Northwest chairman, Senator Bello Hayatu Gwarzo, underscored the party’s resolve to take its rightful place in national leadership.

“The PDP of the Northwest zone should take its rightful position in the nation by providing quality leadership,” the communiqué stated. “All internal conflicts at the national level must be resolved swiftly because Nigerians are looking to PDP for leadership.”

Despite challenges from the 2023 general elections, the party reaffirmed its strong grassroots support and an increasing national shift toward the PDP, stressing that unity is key to achieving success in 2027.

“We call for unity among party members so that we can solve our problems and ensure victory in 2027. All hands must be on deck to take over leadership in our states and at the national level,” the communiqué added.

The meeting was attended by key PDP stalwarts, including former Kaduna State governor, Senator Ahmed Makarfi; former Kano State Governor, Senator Ibrahim Shekarau; PDP governorship candidate for Jigawa, Mustapha Sule Lamido; Senator Lado Dan Marke; Hon. Isa Ashiru Kudan; Hon. Ango Abdullahi; and the PDP National Youth Leader, among others.