Surajo Garba Maikatako, leader of Senator Kabiru Garba Marafa’s political group, says the exit of his principal from the All Progressives Congress (APC) has reinvigorated his political base in Zamfara.
Maikatako said politicians and nonpoliticians across the state are aligning with Marafa’s structures, which he described as a testament to the senator’s enduring popularity and credibility.
He said: “As the chairman of the supreme council of Senator Marafa Group and a political leader within the group, I can confidently say that the resignation of Senator Marafa from APC has reinvigorated his political base.
“I have been receiving an overwhelming number of calls and visits from supporters across the nation—north-west, northern Nigeria, and beyond—expressing their solidarity and readiness to move with Senator Marafa to the next level of political engagement.”
He said Marafa’s resignation from APC is “a blessing in disguise and a major turning point in our political journey”.
Maikatako reiterated Marafa’s claim that his group would deduct one million votes from President Bola Tinubu’s tally in the next election.
“This is not an empty boast. It is a strategic move backed by a committed, disciplined and determined political structure. Time will prove us right,” he said.
He described Marafa as one of the most principled and selfless leaders in the country, adding that his political house “is the house of truth and accountability”.
Maikatako dismissed claims that APC had received a large number of Marafa’s supporters, saying the figures were “fewer than the number of one polling unit”.
“The people of Zamfara are simply watching the APC leaders naked in the market, because as far as the people are concerned, there is no APC in Zamfara State anymore.
“They will never find a replacement. No one can fill the vacuum he left. His leadership, legacy, and grassroots connection are beyond what the APC can ever replicate,” he stated.
He said Marafa’s exit was not a personal decision but a collective move taken with his supporters after President Bola Tinubu failed to fulfil campaign promises, particularly on insecurity in Zamfara.
“It is worth remembering that Senator Marafa served as the state campaign coordinator for Mr President in the 2023 general elections and played a key role in delivering Zamfara. Unfortunately, the President failed to reciprocate that loyalty and commitment with action,” he said.
Maikatako added that preparations are underway to launch a historic presidential campaign that would “shake the foundations of the status quo”.