In a major political shift that strengthens the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Sokoto State, Senator Aliyu Wamakko (Sokoto Central) on Tuesday received a prominent delegation of defectors from the opposition Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).
The new APC members, led by Alhaji Chika Sarkin-Gishiri, Chairman of the Sokoto State Traders Associations, were formally welcomed at Wamakko’s residence. The event coincided with the APC-led administration’s two-year anniversary under Governor Ahmed Aliyu and is being touted as a major gain for the ruling party in the state.
Wamakko, a former governor and influential APC stalwart, expressed his appreciation for the traders’ decision to align with the APC, assuring them of full integration and equal participation within the party.
“There is no reason not to carry all the traders along. Now that you’ve agreed to work with the government, we believe a lot will be achieved,” Wamakko stated, highlighting the importance of inclusivity in driving developmental goals.
He praised Governor Aliyu’s visible progress across the state, especially in the economic sector. One of the key achievements he cited is the ongoing renovation of the Sokoto Central Market — a major economic hub that was devastated by fire. Wamakko said this effort reflects the administration’s strong commitment to revitalizing the business environment.
Further boosting trader confidence, he revealed that the state government is preparing significant financial support packages targeted at small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). He also addressed concerns over water supply, stating that the APC government is currently upgrading the State Water Board to improve service delivery.
Blaming the previous PDP-led administration for the current infrastructural gaps, Wamakko said, “The dismantling of key facilities was irresponsible, but we’re focused on fixing it and moving forward.”
Reacting to the development, Alhaji Sarkin-Gishiri described the defection as a political earthquake for the PDP in Sokoto. “Our decision is driven by a genuine desire to contribute meaningfully to the development of the state. We believe in the APC’s direction and we’re here to support it fully,” he said.
Echoing this sentiment, Alhaji Ladan Almustapha, former chairman of the traders’ association and current Chairman of the Sokoto State Chamber of Commerce, lauded Wamakko for his consistent leadership and support.
He affirmed that the association’s decision was unanimous and deeply rooted in the belief that the APC-led administration offers the best path for economic and political progress in Sokoto.
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