Shekarau’s Political Ally: Why I Remain in PDP

Adedayo Akinwale and Palvin Namero in Abuja

A long -time political ally of former Governor of Kano State, Ibrahim Shekarau, Malam Salihu Sagir Takai, has declared his intention to remain in the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).

Takai who was the governorship candidate of the PDP during the 2015 general elections was also commissioner for Water Resources and later for Local government during the eight-year tenure of Shekarau when he served as governor of Kano State from 2003 to 2011.

The declaration of Takai was coming few days after Shekarau’s defection to the All Progressive Congress (APC) having dumped the PDP at the weekend.

Shekarau claimed he was forced out of the PDP by alleged perceived injustice from the national leadership of the party.

However, Takai in a statement issued yesterday disclosed that he has resolved to remain in the PDP.

According to him, “after extensive consultations with my supporters, admirers, well -wishers, party faithful at different levels including aspirants to various elective offices, it was clear that majority wanted us to remain in the PDP and as a democrat, I have no option than to heed to the opinion of the majority by remaining in the PDP.”

He said that it took him more than four days consulting with his supporters on the state of affairs in the PDP in Kano since the dissolution of the state executives by the National Working Committee of the party and the subsequent defection of some members led by Shekarau.

He stated: “I hereby report that the outcome of these consultations showed that majority wanted us to remain in the PDP. In view of this opinion of the overwhelming majority, I hereby announce to the people of Kano State that I alongside my teaming supporters hereby remain in the PDP and at the same time continue with my aspiration of becoming the next governor of Kano State under the platform of the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP come 2019”.