The Lagos State chapter of the All Progressives Congress (APC) has reacted to reports that former Kano State governor, Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, defected to the African Democratic Congress (ADC), describing the move as exaggerated and driven by personal ambition rather than national interest.
In a statement issued by its spokesperson, Seye Oladejo, the APC party expressed doubt over claims portraying the development as a major political shift, noting that a closer assessment suggests otherwise.
The Lagos APC alleged that Kwankwaso’s defection is linked to his long-standing pursuit of a presidential or vice-presidential ticket, describing it as a calculated step aimed at advancing personal political interests. According to the party, the move does not reflect ideological alignment or a commitment to governance, but rather a strategy rooted in self-interest.
The statement from Lagos APC also cast doubt on the strength of the Kwankwasiyya movement, claiming it has declined over time due to the departure of key stakeholders, including notable political figures in Kano State. It further argued that Kwankwaso’s influence has been overstated, stressing that true political relevance should be measured by the ability to maintain alliances, build trust, and deliver results.
Reaffirming its stance, the APC chapter emphasized its commitment to disciplined and principle-driven politics, rejecting what it described as opportunistic defections and self-serving actions. It added that Nigerians deserve leadership focused on national development rather than personal ambition, warning that such political moves could shift attention away from governance priorities.
The party concluded that Kwankwaso’s defection should not be viewed as a major political gain, but rather as a development that raises questions about the motives behind recent political realignments.
The statement reads: “While some are eager to portray this move as a seismic political realignment, a closer examination reveals a narrative driven more by ego than by principle.
“Senator Kwankwaso has long publicly declared that any defection on his part must guarantee him a Presidential or Vice Presidential ticket.
“This defection, therefore, is less a genuine commitment to national interest or ideological alignment, and more a calculated exercise in self-aggrandizement. It is a political transaction designed to satisfy personal ambition, not to advance meaningful governance or serve the Nigerian people.
“Moreover, the vaunted Kwankwasiyya movement, often presented as a formidable grassroots force, has long been in tatters. Its abandonment by key stakeholders, including the Kano State Governor and other prominent leaders, laid bare its internal weakness and declining relevance.
“A leader whose so-called movement cannot retain its core supporters is hardly the national game-changer some would have Nigerians believe.
“It is becoming increasingly clear that Senator Kwankwaso’s political influence has been overstated. What is being sold as a strategic realignment is, in reality, an ego-driven, opportunistic maneuver.
“It is a reminder that political prominence is not measured by name recognition or past office, but by the ability to sustain alliances, inspire trust, and deliver results.”
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