Former Governor of Sokoto State, Senator Aminu Waziri Tambuwal, has welcomed the immediate past Chairman of Tangaza Local Government Council, Hon. Isah Salihu Bashar, into the African Democratic Congress (ADC), describing his decision to resign from office before joining the party as a rare demonstration of courage, integrity, and commitment to public service.
Speaking while receiving Hon. Bashar, popularly known as Kalanjeni, at his residence in Sokoto, Senator Tambuwal said the former council chairman had placed principle above personal interest by relinquishing his office before changing his political affiliation.
According to the former governor, only politicians with conviction and a genuine desire to serve the people would be willing to identify with the ADC despite what he described as intimidation and pressure from the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC).
“Anyone whose actions are guided by the interest of the people and the fear of God, rather than personal gain, should have the courage to leave any political party and join the ADC,” Tambuwal said.
Senator Tambuwal recalled that although Hon. Bashar joined the APC in 2022, their personal relationship remained cordial throughout, stressing that political differences should never destroy long-standing friendships or mutual respect.
He further alleged that the APC was employing various tactics to discourage politicians from joining the ADC while attempting to weaken the opposition through division and intimidation.
Commenting on the state of the nation, Tambuwal criticised the Federal Government over the country’s worsening security situation, saying many Nigerians had lost confidence in the APC-led administration because of its inability to effectively address the nation’s pressing challenges.
The former governor also praised Hon. Bashar’s decision to vacate his position before defecting to the ADC, describing it as an uncommon sacrifice that reflected accountability, honour, and respect for democratic values.
Also speaking, the ADC Governorship Candidate in Sokoto State and former Deputy Governor, Alhaji Manir Muhammad Dan’iya, commended Senator Tambuwal’s leadership, noting that his principled approach to politics continued to attract respected politicians from different political parties into the ADC.
Dan’iya welcomed Hon. Bashar into the party and assured him of equal opportunities, inclusiveness, and full participation in all party activities.
In his remarks, Hon. Isah Salihu Bashar said he left the APC after careful reflection, admitting that joining the party in 2022 had been a mistake.
Describing his return to the ADC as a homecoming, Bashar expressed appreciation to Senator Tambuwal for maintaining their relationship despite political differences. He also sought the forgiveness of party members and pledged his unwavering commitment to the ideals, unity, and growth of the African Democratic Congress.
