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A Senior Legislative Aide to the Deputy Senate President, Rijo Shekari, has officially left the All Progressives Congress (APC) to join the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), as political activities intensify ahead of the Zango/Jaba Federal Constituency primaries.
Shekari made his defection known on Tuesday during an expanded caucus meeting of the PDP in the Kaduna South Senatorial District, held in Kafanchan, where party stakeholders formally received him.
Explaining his decision, Shekari said he had engaged in extensive consultations with his political allies and supporters before making the move. According to him, aligning with the PDP reflects his political values and long-term goals.
He emphasized that his priority remains the advancement, dignity, and independence of the Southern Kaduna people, noting that he believes the PDP offers a better platform to pursue these objectives.
Shekari also declared his intention to contest for the Zango/Jaba Federal Constituency seat under the PDP, subject to the outcome of the party’s primaries and the support of the electorate.
While appreciating the opportunities he previously had in the APC, he stated that current political realities necessitated his exit.
Leaders of the PDP in the region described his defection as a significant gain, expressing confidence that his experience would enhance grassroots mobilization and strengthen the party ahead of the primaries. They also assured him of full integration into the party’s structure.