APM Members Defect To PDP In Katsina, Back Danmarke’s Governorship Bid

At least 5,000 members of the Allied Peoples Movement (APM) in Katsina State have reportedly joined the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), pledging support for the party’s governorship candidate, Senator Yakubu Lado Danmarke, ahead of the 2027 elections.

The defectors, led by the Chairman of Katsina Frontiers, Alhaji Aliyu Sani, formally joined the PDP at a rally in Katsina on Sunday.

Sani said the decision followed the group’s confidence in Danmarke’s leadership qualities and record of humanitarian support, particularly for the poor, vulnerable, elderly and children.

He cited the senator’s provision of food and cash assistance, especially during Ramadan, describing him as a humble and compassionate leader who puts the welfare of the people above personal comfort and material wealth.

Also speaking at the rally, Muhammad Hassan El-Makki said Katsina needed a leader genuinely committed to the well-being of its people.

He described Danmarke as experienced and capable of transforming agriculture, healthcare, energy and infrastructure, while pointing to his scholarship programmes and contributions to community development.

El-Makki urged residents to support the senator’s governorship ambition, describing him as “tested and trusted” in humanitarian service.

In his remarks, Danmarke thanked the new members for joining the PDP, saying their defection reflected growing confidence in the party and his candidacy.

He said the new entrants included political structures associated with a former governorship aspirant, prominent personalities, retirees and grassroots coordinators from across the state.

Danmarke identified insecurity as Katsina’s most pressing challenge, pledging to make restoring security his administration’s immediate priority if elected.

He also promised to revive the education, health, agriculture and infrastructure sectors, while accusing the incumbent administration of failing to meet the expectations of residents.

The PDP candidate called on the people of Katsina to join what he described as the party’s movement for change, promising people-centred governance and a rebuilding of the state.

The state PDP Chairman, Alhaji Nura Amadi Kurfi, gave the vote of thanks, expressing confidence that Lado’s candidacy would usher in progress and development in Katsina.