Katsina muslim cleric leads hundreds of defectors from APC, PDP to SDP

A prominent Islamic cleric in Katsina State, Imam Nura Gwanda, has led hundreds of defectors, primarily from the All Progressives Congress (APC) and the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), to the Social Democratic Party (SDP).

Speaking on behalf of the defectors on Sunday, Imam Nura Aliyu stressed the need for religious leaders to actively participate in politics to help reform the system. He urged fellow clerics and citizens to engage in governance rather than remain passive observers.

“It is time for us to stop folding our hands while politics continues to deteriorate,” he said. “We must get involved to bring positive change. If we are to present a flag-bearer, it must be someone of proven integrity who genuinely cares about society’s development—not someone focused only on enriching themselves and their family.”

Aliyu expressed deep frustration with the current political landscape in Katsina, lamenting the struggles of the people despite the state’s predominantly Muslim population.

“We have long desired change, but it has not come. Those entrusted with making life easier for us have failed. Instead of alleviating hardship, they have made things worse,” he said. “After observing the SDP for some time, we have decided to join because we believe they are best positioned to address our challenges.”

The cleric insisted that his political involvement was not for personal gain but to help tackle pressing issues such as poverty, insecurity, and hunger, which he blamed on failed leadership.

“I see the suffering of our people—poverty, insecurity, and hunger, even in urban areas. These problems exist because those entrusted by Almighty Allah to serve us have failed,” he stated. “This is why we are joining the SDP to work for the development we so desperately need.”

Aliyu, who has been politically active since 1999, explained that his focus has always been on serving the masses. He recalled his journey through various political parties, including the PDP, ANPP, CPC, and APC, before finally deciding to support the SDP ahead of the 2027 elections.

“We have never been in politics for personal gain. Our goal has always been to work for the people. Now, we have made up our minds to fully support the SDP and ensure its success in 2027 so we can rescue our people,” he declared.

Reacting to the wave of defections, the SDP Chairman in Katsina State, Bello Safana, welcomed the new members, attributing the party’s growing appeal to its transparency and strong values.

“Our party secretariat has become a hub of activity, especially with the addition of notable figures like former Kaduna State Governor Nasir El-Rufai,” Safana said. “As of noon today, we have registered 400 new members, mostly from the APC, PDP, PRP, and NNPP, and the numbers keep rising.”

He noted that many former APC supporters had lost faith in the ruling party after years of unfulfilled promises, prompting them to seek an alternative in the SDP.

“The APC has failed them, which is why they are turning to the SDP,” he said. “Our party stands for justice, progress, and equity. We remain committed to an open-door policy that will drive the development of Katsina State and the nation as a whole.”