The Kano State House of Assembly member representing Tudun Wada Constituency, Sule Lawan Shuwaki, has officially resigned from the All Progressives Congress (APC) and joined the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP). The resignation was announced during Monday's plenary session, marking a significant shift in the political composition of the 40-member chamber.
Speaker of the Assembly, Rt. Hon. Jibril Ismail Falgore, read Shuwaki's resignation letter before the lawmaker personally confirmed his decision on the floor of the House. With this defection, the Assembly now has 37 APC members, two New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP) members, and one PDP member.
Reasons Behind Shuwaki's Departure from APC
In his resignation letter, Shuwaki stated that his decision to leave the APC came after extensive consultations with political associates, supporters, and family, as well as personal reflection. He acknowledged the support he received from APC leadership at ward, local government, state, and national levels throughout his tenure but indicated that he was now following a new political path guided by his own convictions.
After the letter was read, Speaker Falgore asked Shuwaki directly whether he had submitted the resignation letter himself. Shuwaki confirmed he had and added that he had actually crossed to the PDP several months earlier. He explained that ongoing political consultations had caused a delay in formally presenting the letter to the Assembly.
Two-Month Delay Before Formal Presentation
Speaker Falgore disclosed that the Assembly had received Shuwaki's resignation letter roughly two months before Monday's plenary but chose not to present it immediately. The Speaker said he held back the letter following consultations with the lawmaker to confirm whether he still intended to proceed with the defection. When it became clear Shuwaki was not changing his mind, Falgore moved to formally read the letter before the House.
Shuwaki used the occasion to thank his supporters and former political allies in Tudun Wada for helping him secure his seat in the Assembly. He called on the public to maintain unity and goodwill regardless of political differences.
This development represents a setback for the APC in Kano State, as the party's dominance in the Assembly has been reduced, while the PDP gains a foothold in the legislative body.
