The Deputy President of the Senate, Senator Barau I. Jibrin, yesterday officially welcomed key figures from the New Nigeria People's Party (NNPP) to the All Progressives Congress (APC).
The reception took place on Sunday at his Abuja residence, as confirmed by his special adviser on media and publicity, Ismail Mudashir.
Among the notable defectors were Alhaji Bala Uba Kulkul, a leader of the Askarawan Kwankwasiyya movement in Dawakin Kudu Local Government Area (LGA), and the former chairman of Bagwai LGA, Alhaji Aminu Ibrahim Gogori. Kulkul, along with 15 commanders from the Askarawan Kwankwasiyya, joined the APC, citing their admiration for Senator Barau's leadership style as a primary reason for their defection.
Kulkul expressed their commitment to support the APC across Kano State, promising to mobilise their commanders in all 44 local government areas.
Senator Barau welcomed the new members, assuring them of equal treatment within the APC and reaffirming the party's dedication to addressing national challenges. He urged support for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu's efforts to advance the country's progress and prosperity.
In a related development, Senator Barau also received Gogori, former Bagwai LGA chairman, along with councilors and other NNPP chieftains from the area. Gogori cited unmet promises by NNPP leaders as the reason for their departure.
Senator Barau expressed his gratitude for their return, declaring, "APC is your home. You left, and now you are back to your rightful place, the APC, the largest political party in Africa. Welcome back. Insha Allah, you won't regret this action."