The Bauchi state chapter of the All Progressives Congress (APC), has suffered a major setback as its deputy chairman, Hon. Ibrahim Misau, alongside other local government and ward executives in Misau local government area defected to the Peoples Redemption Party (PRP) ahead of the 2027 governorship election.
Misau, a former two-term member of the House of Representatives who represented the Misau/Dambam federal constituency, announced his resignation from the APC, alongside the other party executives, citing what they described as the persistent imposition of unpopular candidates and the absence of internal democracy within the party.
Misau Local Government is the home of the Coordinating Minister of Health and Social Welfare, Prof. Muhammad Ali Pate.
The defectors declared their support for the 2027 governorship candidate of PRP, Senator Shehu Buba Umar, describing their decision as a step towards promoting justice, fairness and inclusive leadership in Bauchi state.
At a gathering coordinated by Hon. Maiwada Bakoji Misau and Hon. Shehu Dubagari Misau, the defectors described their move as a “political awakening” aimed at repositioning the state’s political landscape.
Speaking on behalf of the group, the former APC executives attributed their exit to the lack of internal democracy, poor leadership and the neglect of grassroots party members.
“We are joining the PRP because politics should be about service to humanity, empowerment and meaningful development,” the group stated, expressing confidence in Senator Shehu Buba Umar’s grassroots engagement and commitment to community development.
The group also noted that a large number of the defectors are from Ajili/Gugulin ward in Misau local government area, the ward of Professor Pate.
They pledged to mobilise support for the PRP ahead of the 2027 general election, claiming that thousands of APC members across Bauchi state have so far left the ruling party.
Welcoming the new members, Senator Umar assured them of equal opportunities and active participation within the PRP.
“The PRP remains committed to justice, unity, transparency and people-oriented leadership. We are ready to offer the people of Bauchi a credible alternative,” he said.
He urged party supporters to remain united and committed as preparations for the 2027 elections gather momentum.
Political observers believe the latest defections could strengthen the PRP’s growing presence in Bauchi State and further reshape the state’s political landscape ahead of the 2027 governorship election.