By Ezra Musa

The Coalition of Kaduna Political Groups says the unity and well-organised structure of the All Progressive Congress (APC), has enhanced its perception as a credible party among voters.

The coalition stated this in a statement signed by its Co-conveners, Mr Ibrahim Kachia and Solomon Maiyaki.

Other signatories included Dr Victor Bobai, Public Relation Officer, Mrs Blessing Daniel, Secretary General, and Hajiya Aisha Zango, Women Leader.

In the statement issued in Kaduna on Saturday, the group said that APC had demonstrated a more organised internal structure, enabling it to respond effectively to pressing national challenges.

“The APC has positioned itself as a party of development, actively promoting inclusive governance and policies that reflect the needs of the people.

“This proactive engagement enhances the APC’s appeal as voters seek a party that not only acknowledges their concerns, but also endeavours to address them effectively.

“Also, the APC’s focus on infrastructure development and economic innovation resonates with Nigerians’ quest for initiatives that would improve their lot.

“The positioning of the APC as a party of change has also attracted voters seeking good governance,” it said.

The coalition expressed concern about the current state of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), as an opposition party and its implications for Nigerian politics.

It particularly said that PDP’s internal struggles, leadership crisis, among other challenges, have raised significant questions about its viability as a credible opposition party.

It added that the outcome of past elections, particularly the recent governorship election in Edo, has illustrated the precarious state of the party.

“Also, recent developments in Kaduna State, particularly in Southern Kaduna, have underscored the growing decline of the party’s influence.

“The departure of prominent figures and their supporters from the party highlights an urgent need for re-evaluation.

“Notably, the exit of notable figures, such as Sen. Shehu Sani, along with 10,000 supporters, signals an alarming trend.

“This dissatisfaction is prompting political migration towards the APC,” it noted.

The coalition further said that the political landscape in southern Kaduna, where the PDP had enjoyed massive support since 1999, might soon change.

It expressed concern that political figures like Sen. Danjuma Laah, Mr Andrew Yakubu, Joseph Gumbari, and thousands of their supporters, might consider leaving the party.

It blamed the declining popularity of the PDP in the region on the party’s failure to present a unified front, effectively address internal conflicts, and provide tangible benefits to its supporters.

“On the other hand, the APC’s ability to rally its members around common goals has positioned it favourably to capitalise on the PDP’s internal fragmentation to hold on to power as the ruling party,” it said.

The coalition advised politicians and the electorate in southern Kaduna to embrace the APC for development, cashing in on President Bola Tinubu’s renewed hope agenda and Gov. Uba Sani’s rural transformation initiatives.

“The decision to remain loyal to the PDP should not be dictated by sentiment; rather, the focus must shift toward tangible benefits.

“Embracing change and aligning with parties that offer genuine governance opportunities may very well determine the future of political representation in the region.

“It is time for the vibrant youth and women of southern Kaduna to strategise collectively, strengthening the APC as a vehicle for real progress and development.

“The time for change is now, and we must prioritise tangible benefits over sentiment. Let us work together to build a better future for our region and Nigeria as a whole,” it said.

On the feasibility of the PDP to regain its position as a viable opposition party or even win election, the coalition advised it to pay attention to accountability and inclusion.

“The PDP can only rebuild its connection with the electorate if it demonstrates a high level of responsibility, strong leadership and presents a united front,” the group said. (NAN)

Edited by Philip Yatai

By Kingsley Okoye

The Senate on Thursday at plenary passed a bill seeking to establish the South West Development Commission.

The passage of the bill followed the adoption of the report of the Committee on Special Duties presented by the Chairman, Sen. Kaka Shehu (APC-Borno).

Shehu, in his presentation said the bill was designed to drive the socio-economic development of South West.

“If the Commission is established through presidential assent to the bill, it will like other development – driven commissions established on zonal basis.

“It will receive funds from the federation account, donations from development partners, among others, to address infrastructural deficits and tackle ecological problems in the region,” he said.

Senate, after Shehu’s presentation accordingly resolved into committee of the whole for clause by clause consideration of the bill, after which it was read for the third time.

Deputy President of Senate, Sen.
Barau Jibrin (APC-Kano), who presided plenary after passage of the bill commended Sen. Kaka-led committee for processing the bill.

Barau said the South West Development Commission like other ones, recently established, would address the infrastructural and ecological challenges in the South West.

“The essence of the various development commissions being set up , is to fast track development of the entire country.

“President Bola Tinubu has assented to similar bills passed for zonal development – driven interventions and will surely assent to this one, ” he said. (NAN) 

Edited by Abiemwense Moru