Key Absentees Raise Eyebrows at Kaduna APC Rally
The All Progressives Congress (APC) mega rally in Kafanchan, Kaduna South Senatorial District, held on Friday, was notably missing two prominent figures: former Kaduna State Governor Nasir El-Rufai and ex-Senator Shehu Sani. Despite the event being heavily publicized as a major political gathering, their absence sparked speculation and criticism.
El-Rufai, often regarded as the godfather of incumbent Governor Uba Sani, and Shehu Sani, a vocal human rights activist and former Kaduna Central Senator, were conspicuously absent. Their no-show raised questions about the unity and internal dynamics within the Kaduna APC.
Senator Lawal Adamu Usman Mocks Rally as ‘Rented Crowd’
Adding fuel to the fire, Senator Lawal Adamu Usman, who represents Kaduna Central in the 10th Senate, dismissed the rally as a staged event. In a scathing Facebook post, he accused Governor Uba Sani of orchestrating a “rented crowd” to create the illusion of popularity.
“APC is like Papalolo in Kaduna State,” Senator Usman wrote. “If you truly believed in your rented crowd, why not conduct an election in at least one ward to test your popularity? Even the governor couldn’t cast his vote at his polling station during the time.”
His comments highlighted growing skepticism about the authenticity of the rally’s turnout and the APC’s grassroots support in Kaduna.
APC Claims Massive Turnout and Defections
Despite the criticism, the Kaduna State government defended the rally as a resounding success. In a statement issued by Governor Uba Sani’s spokesperson, Ibrahim Musa, the event was described as a show of confidence in the governor’s leadership.
According to the statement, the rally attracted political heavyweights from all three senatorial districts in Kaduna, including serving and former federal legislators, state assembly members, former local government chairpersons, and opposition party leaders. Over 22 prominent defectors reportedly joined the APC, reinforcing the party’s dominance in the state.
What’s Really Going On?
The absence of key political figures like El-Rufai and Shehu Sani, coupled with Senator Usman’s allegations of a “rented crowd,” has cast a shadow over the APC’s claims of unity and popularity in Kaduna. While the party insists the rally was a success, critics argue that the event was more about optics than genuine support.
As the 2027 elections approach, the internal dynamics within the Kaduna APC will be crucial to watch. Will the party maintain its dominance, or will cracks in its foundation lead to a shift in the political landscape? Only time will tell.
