Ex-IG Suleiman Abba Swaps APC for PDP in Jigawa State

Suleiman Abba, who previously served as the nation's Inspector-General of Police, has officially switched his political affiliation from the All Progressives Congress (APC) to the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) within Jigawa State.

The former police boss made this declaration on Saturday during a gathering held in Bamaina, a town notable as the birthplace of ex-Jigawa State Governor, Sule Lamido. At the event, he was welcomed into the PDP fold by prominent party officials and numerous supporters.

According to Abba, his decision to join the PDP is driven by his aspiration to secure a seat in the National Assembly, specifically to represent the Jigawa South-West Senatorial District. He stated, “I have left the APC for the PDP because I believe this is the platform to deliver real representation for Jigawa South-West.”

He further noted that the significant attendance at the rally underscored the populace's yearning for transformation. Abba outlined that his electoral campaign would prioritize key areas such as security, agricultural development, and opportunities for youth employment. He pledged, “I will take the voice of our farmers, our youths and our women to the Senate if elected.”

During the reception, Sule Lamido, the former Jigawa State Governor, hailed Abba's move as a significant advantage for the PDP. Lamido expressed confidence that Abba's inclusion would bolster the party's standing in preparation for the upcoming 2027 general elections. He remarked, “This is a big catch for the PDP. A man of Abba’s record brings credibility and reach to our party.”

Lamido also conveyed his hopeful expectation that additional political figures would soon align with the party. He highlighted that the attendance of PDP gubernatorial candidates from Kano, Yobe, Bauchi, Gombe, and Jigawa states at the event demonstrated a united front for the party across the Northern region. Lamido concluded, “Suleiman Abba served this country with honour as IGP. Now he wants to serve Jigawa South-West in the Senate. We will stand with him.”

In his address, Babandi Gumel, the Chairman of the PDP in Jigawa State, affirmed the party's readiness to fully incorporate Abba and his multitude of followers into its organizational framework throughout the state. Gumel asserted, “Today, the PDP is getting stronger in Jigawa South-West with the coming of IGP Abba and his thousands of supporters. Our ward, LGA and zonal executives are on the ground to integrate everyone into the PDP family.”

Mustapha Lamido, the PDP's candidate for governor in Jigawa State, also commented that Abba’s change of party would significantly enhance the PDP’s electoral prospects within the state leading up to the 2027 general elections.

As Abba was formally welcomed into the party, enthusiastic supporters present at the rally cheered party slogans and prominently displayed PDP flags.