More than 60,000 members and supporters of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) in Jega Local Government Area of Kebbi State have defected to the All Progressives Congress (APC). The defectors were formally received by Governor Nasir Idris, who assured them of equal treatment within the ruling party.
The All Progressives Congress (APC) in Kebbi State has recorded a major political boost after more than 60,000 members and supporters of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) officially joined the ruling party ahead of the 2027 general elections.
The mass defection took place at the Government House in Birnin Kebbi, where Governor Nasir Idris welcomed the new members and described their decision as a significant development for the APC in the state.
The defectors were led by Alhaji Aminu Mustapha, a former ADC coordinator in Jega Local Government Area and former House of Representatives aspirant for the Aliero/Gwandu/Jega Federal Constituency.
Speaking on behalf of the group, Mustapha said they decided to leave the ADC after assessing what they described as the achievements of Governor Nasir Idris in Kebbi State and the leadership of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu at the federal level.
According to him, they believe the APC remains better positioned to promote development and improve the welfare of Nigerians.
The defection comes as political parties continue to reposition ahead of the 2027 elections, with several states witnessing movements of politicians and supporters across party lines.
Observers say the departure of such a large number of members from a single local government area could alter the political balance in Kebbi State, particularly in Jega, where both major parties have been working to strengthen their grassroots structures.
Governor Nasir Idris assured the new members that they would enjoy the same rights, opportunities and privileges as existing APC members.
He urged them to remain united and work towards the party’s success in the 2027 general elections, while thanking them for what he described as their confidence in his administration and the APC.
The latest mass defection highlights the growing political realignments taking place across Nigeria as preparations for the 2027 elections gather momentum. With parties continuing to attract new members and consolidate their support bases, Kebbi State is expected to remain one of the key political battlegrounds in the North-West.