Mike Auta, the Labour Party’s senatorial candidate for Kaduna-South in the 2023 general election, has officially defected to the All Progressives Congress (APC).
Gists9ja reports that Auta made the announcement on Sunday in his hometown of Fai, located in the Jaba Local Government Area of Kaduna State, alongside his supporters.
During the event, Auta assured President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and Kaduna State Governor Uba Sani of significant electoral support in the 2027 general elections. He pledged to deliver one million votes from Southern Kaduna, attributing his decision to join the APC to his commitment to this goal.
“My name is well-known across Southern Kaduna,” Auta stated confidently. “With the strong backing of my supporters, we are ready to secure one million votes for President Tinubu and Governor Sani.”
He emphasized the need for unity and collaboration with the ruling party to bring meaningful development to the region. “We must join forces with the Kaduna State Governor and our President to change the fortunes of our region. Aligning with the ruling party is our only viable option, as any misstep could be detrimental,” he said.
Auta highlighted the Tinubu administration’s recognition of Southern Kaduna by appointing a native as the Chief of Defence Staff. He also praised Governor Uba Sani’s inclusive governance and efforts to foster peace and stability in the region.
“There is relative peace now; our people can sleep peacefully and return to their farmlands. The Governor has not segregated us as previous administrations did,” Auta remarked.
Addressing speculation about his political ambitions for 2027, Auta declined to disclose specific plans, stating that it was premature to make such announcements. However, he confirmed that his defection to the APC was a strategic move to contribute his experience and influence to the party.
“This is not about playing politics but about upholding the tradition of joining a political party. I am here to formally join the ruling party and bring my wealth of experience to bear,” he affirmed.
Auta’s defection is expected to strengthen the APC’s influence in Southern Kaduna, a region traditionally known for its diverse political landscape. His commitment to delivering a significant voting bloc in 2027 signals his determination to align the region more closely with the ruling party.
