Because I defected to ADC, Kwankwaso

Dr Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, former governor of Kano State, on Monday formally aligned himself with the African Democratic Congress (ADC), in a move described as a defining moment for opposition politics in the northwestern state.
ADC National Chairman Senator David Mark received Kwankwaso along with supporters at his residence on Monday.
Mark stressed that Kwankwaso’s defection was more than a political realignment, describing it as a deliberate response to Nigerians’ growing demands for a cohesive and formidable opposition capable of safeguarding democratic values.
He noted that the ADC now represents a rallying platform for a broad-based national movement anchored in inclusion, integrity, competence and progress.
According to him, the coalition aims to provide Nigerians with credible alternatives and restore faith in democratic governance.
Mark expressed concern about what he called a gradual erosion of opposition space, warning that actions that limit political participation pose a threat to democracy.
Mark stressed the importance of preserving citizens’ right to freely choose their leaders.
“Nigeria’s future cannot be built on domination but on participation. Leadership must be earned through trust rather than sustained by control,” he said.
According to him, Kwankwaso commands a significant grassroots following, particularly in northern Nigeria, under the Kwankwasiyya movement.
The ADC President called on Nigerians across ethnic, religious and regional divides to join the movement, urging citizens to take an active role in building a more inclusive and accountable system of government.
He also called on other political parties, civil society organizations and youth groups to form a united coalition, stressing that the task of strengthening democracy requires collective effort and sacrifice.
Mark expressed optimism that the emerging alliance will mark a turning point in Nigeria’s democratic journey, urging citizens to embrace unity, participation and hope in shaping the nation’s future.
Earlier, Kwankwaso had urged ADC supporters to register en masse as party members.
He also encouraged them to promote the party’s ideals and prepare to elect credible leaders for good governance through INEC registration.
Alhaji Mubarak Fagge has said he has decided to follow Rabiu Kwankwaso into the ADC to ensure the party’s success in the next elections.
“We have since undertaken house-to-house mobilization to ensure political growth of the party in the state,” he said.