“Kano Assembly Defection Shakes APC as Lawmaker Joins NDC After Losing Return Ticket”
A member of the Kano State House of Assembly, Abdulmajid Mai Rigar Fata, has officially defected from the All Progressives Congress (APC) to the National Democratic Coalition (NDC) following his failure to secure the party’s return ticket ahead of the next electoral cycle.
The development adds to the growing wave of political realignments across Nigeria’s political landscape, particularly in Kano State, where intra party tensions and ticket disputes continue to reshape loyalties within major political parties.
Mai Rigar Fata, who represented his constituency under the APC platform, reportedly announced his departure after expressing dissatisfaction with the outcome of the party’s candidate selection process. Political observers say the move reflects broader frustrations among politicians who believe internal party structures have become increasingly exclusionary and competitive.
The defection is expected to influence local political calculations in Kano, a strategic northern state widely regarded as one of Nigeria’s most politically significant voting blocs. Analysts note that defections from dominant parties such as the APC could alter grassroots mobilization dynamics ahead of future elections, particularly where aggrieved lawmakers command loyal local support bases.
While the APC in Kano has yet to issue a comprehensive response to the lawmaker’s exit, party insiders insist the ruling party remains strong despite isolated defections. However, opposition figures argue that the movement of dissatisfied lawmakers signals deeper cracks within internal party cohesion.
The NDC, which has continued efforts to expand its political relevance in parts of northern Nigeria, welcomed the lawmaker’s decision, describing it as a sign of growing confidence in alternative political platforms.
Political defections remain a recurring feature of Nigeria’s democratic system, often intensifying during candidate nomination periods and ahead of general elections. Experts say ideological differences frequently take a back seat to strategic political survival, access to party structures, and electoral viability.
The latest development comes amid increasing political maneuvering nationwide as parties reposition ahead of future contests, with Kano expected to remain a major battleground in Nigeria’s evolving political landscape.