A prominent Muslim cleric in Katsina State, Imam Nura Gwanda, led hundreds of defectors, primarily from the All Progressives Congress and the Peoples Democratic Party, to the Social Democratic Party on Sunday.
Speaking on behalf of the defectors, Imam Nura Aliyu stressed the need for clerics to take an active role in politics, arguing that their involvement could help purify the system. He urged:
“It is time for us to stop folding our hands and watch as politics deteriorates. We must engage in politics to make a positive change. People should come and join the process.”
He also warned against self-serving leaders, stating:
“Beware of sycophants; if we are to present a flag-bearer, it must be someone with proven integrity, someone who genuinely cares about the development of society, not someone who is only concerned with benefiting themselves and their family.”
Expressing his frustration with the current political system in Katsina State, Imam Aliyu remarked: “We have long yearned for change in our society, but we haven’t seen it. Despite being a predominantly Muslim state, life has become increasingly difficult. Those entrusted with easing our burdens have failed us, instead creating even more hardship.”
He explained the move to join the SDP by adding: “After observing the SDP for some time, we have decided to join them because we believe they are the party that can address our challenges.”
Highlighting the urgent issues facing Katsina, the cleric said: “When I look at the poverty, security challenges, and hunger that afflict even urban centres, I see the failure of our leaders who were entrusted by Almighty Allah to serve the people. These challenges have prompted us to join the SDP in pursuit of the development we need.”
Reflecting on his long-standing political journey, which spans involvement with the PDP, ANPP, CPC, and APC, Imam Aliyu emphasized his commitment to the people rather than personal gain. He noted:
“Since 1999, we have been involved in politics, not for personal gain but for the betterment of the people. We have now made up our minds to work tirelessly for the success of the SDP, and come 2027, we will be ready to rescue our people.”
In response, SDP Chairman in Katsina State, Bello Safana, welcomed the surge of new members.
He cited the party’s transparency and core values as the driving factors behind the growing support. Safana said:
“The secretariat has become a hub of activity, especially with the addition of prominent figures like former Kaduna State Governor Mallam Nasir El-Rufai. As of noon today, we have received 400 new members, most of whom are coming from the APC, PDP, PRP, and NNPP. The number continues to grow daily. People are leaving the ruling APC because, while they initially believed in the promises made by the party, they have been let down. The APC has failed them, and that’s why they are now turning to the SDP.”
He further underscored the SDP’s commitment to fairness and progress, stating:
“We are committed to an open-door policy that supports the development of the party, Katsina State, and the nation as a whole.”
