Former PDP Leader Declares Support for Dikko Radda’s Government

“We Have No Reason to Oppose Dikko Radda’s Administration” – Rabi’u Gambo Bakori

By Zaharaddeen Ishaq Abubakar, Katsina Times 

In a significant political development, the former Chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Katsina State and former Deputy Governorship candidate, Alhaji Rabi’u Gambo Bakori, has declared his support for the administration of Governor Malam Dikko Umaru Radda, PhD, CON. This statement was made on Tuesday, January 21, 2025, during an event where Governor Radda formally received key opposition leaders into the All Progressives Congress (APC), including a former presidential candidate of the Accord Party.

Alhaji Bala Abu Musawa, the Deputy Chairman of the APC in Katsina State, announced the returnees, which included prominent figures such as Alhaji Isah Hamisu, a former presidential candidate of the Accord Party; Alhaji Surajo Umar Damari, a former Deputy Governor; Alhaji Rabi’u Gambo Bakori, and Hon. Musa Gafai, the leader of the Dikko Project.  Other notable defectors included leaders from NNPP, LP, and other opposition parties.

In his remarks, Hon. Faruk Lawal Jobe, the Deputy Governor and Chairman of the Local Government Election Committee for the APC, attributed the influx of defectors to the numerous developmental projects initiated by Governor Dikko Radda in less than two years in office. These projects include:

• Establishment of the C-Watch security initiative.
• Recruitment of 7,325 teachers.
• Distribution of subsidized fertilizers.
• Sponsorship of students for studies abroad.
• Infrastructure development, including roads and hospital renovations.
• Provision of modern farming equipment for both dry and wet seasons.

Speaking on behalf of the defectors, Alhaji Rabi’u Gambo Bakori emphasized that their decision to join the APC was driven by Governor Radda’s achievements across the state. “Opposition should be for the benefit of the people, but when progress is evident, there is no justification for opposition,” he stated.

Governor Malam Dikko Umaru Radda expressed his gratitude for the growing support, attributing it to divine guidance. He reiterated his commitment to serving the people of Katsina State with sincerity. “If my intentions are good, may Allah bless my efforts; if otherwise, may He hold me accountable,” he said.

The event was attended by key government officials, including the Secretary to the government of the state SGS S Abdullahi Garba Faskari; Chief of Staff, Hon. Abdulkadir Mamman Nasir; and the Governor’s Secretary, Hon. Abdullahi Aliyu Turaji, among others.