Fresh Defections Hit NDC: Spokesperson Laments Hanga, Gaya’s Planned APC Move

The Director of New Media and Strategic Communications of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC), Theo Abu Agada, has described reports of the planned defection of Senators Rufai Hanga and Kabiru Gaya to the All Progressives Congress (APC) as “extremely painful.”

Agada reacted on Monday via his handle amid growing speculation that the two Kano politicians are preparing to leave the NDC for the ruling party.

His reaction came a day after President Bola Tinubu met with Hanga and Gaya at the Presidential Villa in Abuja. The lawmakers were accompanied by the Deputy Senate President, Jibrin Barau.

“This is extremely painful but we move,” Agada wrote.

The meeting has intensified reports that both politicians are on the verge of dumping the NDC for the APC.

According to reports, Hanga decided to leave the party after failing to secure the Kano Central Senatorial ticket and the deputy governorship slot under the NDC. He was also said to have been dissatisfied after allegedly missing out on other political opportunities linked to the party’s leadership.

Gaya, who sought the Kano South Senatorial ticket on the NDC platform, also reportedly lost out after a consensus candidate backed by Rabiu Kwankwaso’s camp emerged.

Their reported move follows an earlier meeting with APC National Chairman, Professor Nentawe Yilwatda, a development that further fueled speculation about their imminent defection.

Sunday’s visit to the Presidential Villa has strengthened expectations that both politicians will officially join the APC, with reports indicating that a formal announcement could be made next week.