From Abel Leonard, Lafia
The Nasarawa State Commissioner for Environment and Natural Resources, Dr Yakubu Kwanta, has welcomed over 600 members from opposition parties, including the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) and the Social Democratic Party (SDP), into the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC).
The defection ceremony took place at the official opening of the APC’s new office in Ningo Bohar Ward, Akwanga Local Government Area on Sunday.
Among the decampees were Mr. Monday Gaskiya, the former PDP secretary, and Mr. Mathew Nkpameh, both of whom expressed their confidence in the APC’s people-oriented policies as the reason for their decision to join the party.
“We are joining the APC because of its commitment to grassroots development and the numerous programs that directly benefit the people,” Gaskiya stated.
Dr. Kwanta, while receiving the new members, praised his kinsmen for their unwavering support for the APC. He assured them that the current administration, under Governor Abdullahi Sule, remains dedicated to delivering impactful democratic dividends.
“I want to assure you that the APC is committed to improving the lives of our people. The government is determined to ensure that everyone benefits from the gains of democracy,” Kwanta said.
As part of the event, the commissioner donated a 406 Peugeot car to Stephen Sarkin Matasa of Ningo Bohar Ward, further emphasising his dedication to community development.
Also speaking at the event, Mr. Larry Ven-Bawa, the Chief Whip of the Nasarawa State House of Assembly, commended Dr. Kwanta and Governor Sule for their service to the people. He promised to contribute his efforts towards the growth of the ward.
“I applaud Dr. Kwanta and our governor for their exemplary leadership. We will continue to support their efforts in ensuring our people benefit from good governance,” Ven-Bawa stated.
Other notable figures at the event included Mrs. Larai Makpu, Special Assistant to Governor Sule on Women Affairs, Aminu Dogo, and Evangelist Zakari Barkis, who all hailed Dr. Kwanta as a true leader, urging others to emulate his generosity.
The Chairman of the APC in Akwanga Local Government Area, Alhaji Abbas Liman, reassured the decampees of equal opportunities within the party.
“You are all welcome to the APC family, and I assure you that there will be no discrimination. Everyone will have an equal chance to participate and contribute to the party’s growth,” Liman said.
The event concluded with calls for APC supporters to come out en masse for the upcoming local government elections in the state, with the hope that the party will continue to strengthen its foothold in the region.