By Abdullahi Yusuf
National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Prof. Nentawe Yilwatda, has urged former Kano State Governor, Ibrahim Shekarau, to join the ruling party, describing his leadership as critical to national development.
Yilwatda made the appeal on Wednesday during a visit to Shekarau’s residence in Kano, where he said the move was both a mark of respect and part of efforts to strengthen the APC ahead of future elections.
“We are here to plead with you to join the APC. Your experience and leadership are needed to move the party and the nation forward,” he said.
The APC chairman described Shekarau as a seasoned and principled politician with significant national influence, adding that his contribution would be valuable to Nigeria’s political development.
He noted that Northern Nigeria was at a critical point requiring unity among key political actors to ensure stability and progress.
He also emphasised the need for fairness in power rotation, stating that after the North’s tenure under former President Muhammadu Buhari, the South should be allowed to complete its term under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
The APC chairman cited ongoing federal projects, including the AKK gas pipeline and the Lagos–Kano–Maradi rail line as key initiatives expected to boost economic activities, particularly in Kano, which he described as a major commercial hub in the sub-Saharan Africa.
Responding, Shekarau said consultations on his political future were nearing completion, with all options under consideration.
“You came at a time we are making final preparations to exit the PDP, which we understand has been severely affected by internal issues,” he said.
Shekarau added that any decision he and his supporters would take would be guided by what he described as a “Kano First Agenda.”
“My movement, alongside my Shura Council, supporters and associates, is based on a Kano First agenda. Anything that benefits Kano is where I stand,” he stated.
He further stressed that his political ambition remained secondary to the peace and progress of Kano State, noting that he would not pursue any course capable of triggering instability in the state.