APC Woos Shekarau as Chairman Yilwatda Intensifies Defection Drive

The National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Nentawe Yilwatda, on Wednesday visited former Kano State Governor, Ibrahim Shekarau, in a renewed push to lure key opposition figures back into the ruling party.

Yilwatda, who was received at Shekarau’s residence in Kano, also held talks with a former senator representing Kano North, Bello Hayatu. Both political heavyweights are prominent members of the opposition Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).

The visit is part of what party insiders describe as a broader reconciliation and recruitment campaign by the APC leadership aimed at consolidating its influence ahead of future political contests. It follows a similar outreach by Yilwatda to Bauchi State Governor, Bala Mohammed.

Adopting a conciliatory tone during the meeting, the APC chairman appealed for support and mentorship from the former governor, describing himself as a “son” seeking guidance from elder statesmen.

“Come and help me, I am your son. I need your support and mentorship. I cannot do it alone,” Yilwatda said. “Let us come together to build a strong alliance that will strengthen the North.”

In his response, Shekarau commended the APC chairman for the personal nature of the visit, noting that it reflected sincerity and respect.

“You came yourself, which shows commitment. You could have sent a representative or invited me to Abuja, but you chose to come here,” he said.

The former governor, however, indicated that no immediate decision would be taken, revealing that his political camp is currently reassessing its position amid internal challenges within the PDP.

“You met us at a time we are searching for solutions to the issues affecting our party,” Shekarau said, hinting at ongoing consultations within his fold.

He added that any eventual decision would be guided by the recommendations of his ‘Shura committee’ and the broader interest of Kano State.

“In the coming days, you will hear from us. Whatever decision we take will be based on ‘Kano first’,” he stated.
Shekarau served as Governor of Kano State from 2003 to 2011. He later held office as Minister of Education and represented Kano Central in the Senate.