Former Kaduna Central Senator Shehu Sani has opened up about his decision to rejoin the All Progressives Congress (APC) after a stint with the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP). Sani, a vocal critic and former ally of ex-Governor Nasir El-Rufai, cited the efforts of the current Kaduna State Governor, Uba Sani, as the primary reason for his return to the ruling party.
This political shift marks a significant moment in Kaduna’s political landscape, as Sani and other defectors aim to strengthen the APC ahead of future elections. Here’s the full story.
Why Shehu Sani Left the APC
Shehu Sani’s initial exit from the APC in October 2018 was fueled by controversies surrounding the party’s primaries and his strained relationship with then-Governor Nasir El-Rufai. Sani, a founding member of the APC in Kaduna, played a key role in the party’s success in the 2015 elections, winning the Kaduna Central Senatorial seat.
However, political and personal differences with El-Rufai led to his departure. Sani later joined the PDP and secured its senatorial ticket for the 2019 election but lost to Uba Sani, the current governor.
The Return to APC
On February 16, 2025, Shehu Sani officially returned to the APC, alongside other defectors from the PDP and the New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP). During an appearance on Channels Television’s Hard Copy, Sani explained that the change in leadership in Kaduna State prompted his decision.
“A circumstance led to our mass exit from the APC sometime in 2018, and that circumstance has changed. We rejoined the APC in Kaduna State,” Sani said.
He credited Governor Uba Sani for reaching out and fostering reconciliation across the state. “We have a new governor who reached out to us, a governor who has been making consultations, building bridges across the state. We met and agreed that we should return to the party that we founded in Kaduna State.”
The Role of Governor Uba Sani
Governor Uba Sani’s inclusive approach and efforts to unite various political factions in Kaduna played a pivotal role in Shehu Sani’s return. Unlike his predecessor, El-Rufai, whose leadership style often sparked controversy, Uba Sani has focused on reconciliation and collaboration.
Sani praised the governor’s leadership, stating, “We parted ways over differences that are both political, personal, and also issues that affect the state. Now, we have a new governor who has been making consultations and building bridges.”
What This Means for Kaduna Politics
Shehu Sani’s return to the APC is a significant boost for the party in Kaduna. As a prominent political figure and vocal advocate for good governance, Sani’s presence could help consolidate the APC’s support base ahead of future elections.
His defection also signals a shift in Kaduna’s political dynamics, with Governor Uba Sani emerging as a unifying figure capable of bridging divides within the party.
What’s Next?
With Shehu Sani back in the APC fold, the party is poised to strengthen its position in Kaduna. However, the real test will be whether this reconciliation translates into tangible results for the people of Kaduna State.
As the 2027 elections approach, all eyes will be on how the APC leverages this newfound unity to maintain its dominance in the state.
