Former governor of Jigawa State, Sule Lamido, has provided insights into the ongoing exodus of notable members from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), as reported by Vanguard.
Lamido attributed the defection of former Governor of Katsina State to the All Progressives Congress (APC) to the historical political dynamics of the region. He noted that Katsina was previously under the control of the All Peoples Party (APP) until former President Olusegun Obasanjo's influence facilitated PDP's victory in 2003. However, with the ascendancy of former President Muhammadu Buhari and his political associates, the state reverted to the APC.
Regarding speculation about motives behind defections, Lamido dismissed claims that it was solely due to fear of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC).
He stated, “I see it as he wants to meet them. I don’t believe that he went to APC because of the EFCC. Though, I remember what the former national chairman of APC, Adams Oshiomhole said that when you defect to the APC, all your sins are forgotten.”
Lamido expressed concern over the internal dynamics within PDP, particularly in Imo State, he stated, “The leadership of the party was extremely unfair to Ihedioha who first asked if Anyanwu will contest for governor and when Anyanwu said yes, Ihedioha left it for him and yet, Anyanwu still did not leave the post of National secretary. It is not fair.”
Expanding on the role of the judiciary in exacerbating PDP's challenges, Lamido referenced the Supreme Court's controversial ruling in Ihedioha's case, which overturned his election victory. He lamented the judiciary's alleged bias and its impact on the party's fortunes, particularly in the Southeast geopolitical zone.
Despite the turmoil within PDP, Lamido ruled out the possibility of joining the APC, he said, “No, they will not accept me. Go and ask President Bola Tinubu, if he and his APC will accept me.”