Ex-Gov Ibrahim Shekarau Quits Peoples Democratic Party, Returns To All Progressives Congress

A former Governor of Kano State, Ibrahim Shekarau, has officially defected from the Peoples Democratic Party to the ruling All Progressives Congress, marking another significant shift in Nigeria’s political landscape.

According to Ireporter Online, Shekarau made the announcement on Sunday at his residence along Mundubawa Avenue in Kano, where the venue was visibly decorated with APC campaign materials, signaling his return to the party. Addressing his supporters, the former governor explained that the decision followed wide consultations and a thorough assessment of available political options. He emphasized that the move was a collective resolution, inviting dissenting opinions before finalizing the decision.

The defection also saw the exit of Senator Bello Hayatu Gwarzo, a prominent figure within the PDP, who joined Shekarau in aligning with the APC. The development came shortly after Shekarau formally tendered his resignation from the PDP in a letter dated April 19, 2026, addressed to his ward chairman in Giginyu, Nassarawa Local Government Area.

In the correspondence, he confirmed his immediate withdrawal from the party and expressed appreciation to party leaders at the grassroots for their support and leadership over the years. Copies of the letter were reportedly forwarded to PDP officials at both the local government and state levels.

Political observers note that Shekarau’s exit follows prolonged internal challenges within the PDP, which have led to a series of defections and realignments across the country. Earlier in the month, he had hinted at a possible departure during a visit by APC National Chairman Nentawe Yilwatda, where he reportedly described the PDP as being plagued by internal issues.

The former governor had also engaged in separate meetings with President Bola Tinubu and Kano State Governor Abba Yusuf, further intensifying speculation about his political direction.

Shekarau, who governed Kano State between 2003 and 2011 under the All Nigeria Peoples Party, has maintained a long history of political transitions. He was among the founding members of the APC, later defected, returned in 2018, and subsequently moved back to the PDP before his latest switch.