In a significant political realignment, Honourable Abdulmumin Jibrin Kofa, the member representing Kiru/Bebeji Federal Constituency in the House of Representatives, has officially announced his defection to the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC).
From Expulsion to New Political Home
The lawmaker's move comes exactly two months after his expulsion from the New Nigeria People's Party (NNPP). The NNPP had taken disciplinary action against Jibrin over allegations of anti-party activities and failure to pay membership dues.
Since his dismissal from the NNPP, Jibrin had maintained silence regarding his political future, though speculation had been mounting due to his known close relationship with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
Public Declaration and Massive Support
On Monday, November 10, the fourth-term legislator broke his silence through his verified social media channels, confirming that he and his supporters had resolved to completely sever ties with both the NNPP and the Kwankwasiyya movement.
Jibrin declared their collective decision to fully support President Tinubu's re-election campaign for the 2027 presidential election.
The formal announcement was accompanied by a massive gathering in his hometown of Kofa, Bebeji, Kano State, where thousands of constituents warmly received him in a show of solidarity.
In his statement, Jibrin emphasized: "Today, in a show of solidarity, I was warmly received by thousands of my constituents in my hometown of Kofa, Bebeji, Kano. The gathering resolved to leave the NNPP/Kwankwasiyya, join the APC, and endorse President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for a second term in office."
Religious Endorsement and Community Backing
The defection event featured significant religious and community support that underscored the lawmaker's local influence. Jibrin disclosed that approximately 2,000 Islamic clerics from his constituency organized special prayers for President Tinubu's success and for peace and development in Kiru/Bebeji, Kano State, and Nigeria as a whole.
In video footage shared from the event, the experienced lawmaker addressed an enthusiastic crowd, highlighting the importance of unity and collective decision-making in their political movement.
Jibrin notably stated: "I decided to bring this crowd to correct my earlier mistake. I don't want anyone to say I don't have supporters," indicating his determination to demonstrate substantial grassroots backing for his political decisions.
This defection represents another significant development in Nigeria's evolving political landscape, particularly in the important political battleground of Kano State, where realignments could have substantial implications for future elections.
