Mustapha Bala Dawaki, former Chief of Staff to the All Progressives Congress, APC National Chairman Nentawe Yilwatda, has defected to the Nigerian Democratic Congress, NDC, a platform associated with Peter Obi and the Kwankwasiyya movement.

Dawaki, who once represented Dawakin Kudu/Warawa Federal Constituency in Kano State at the House of Representatives, left the APC barely one week after losing his return ticket through the party’s consensus arrangement.

The defection was confirmed on Monday by Saifullahi Hassan, media aide to NDC leader and Kwankwasiyya figure, Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso.

According to Hassan, the reception took place at Kwankwaso’s Miller Road residence in Kano.

In a post on his verified Facebook page, the aide wrote: “Leader Kwankwaso has today received the former Chief of Staff to the APC National Chairman, Mustapha Bala Dawaki, popularly known as Mai Gidan Ruwa, into the NDC Kwankwasiyya movement.”

Dawaki’s exit is one of the latest high-profile defections from the APC as political realignments intensify ahead of the 2027 elections.

As Chief of Staff, Dawaki worked closely with the APC National Chairman on party administration and strategy.

His departure comes amid internal disputes in the APC over consensus arrangements for tickets in Kano and other states.

The NDC has been holding consultations and consensus talks across the country to strengthen its base ahead of the polls.

Party leaders say the new entrants are expected to boost the NDC’s structure in Kano and the North-west.

Kwankwaso’s Miller Road residence has become a major reception point for defectors joining the NDC Kwankwasiyya bloc.

Political observers note that Dawaki’s grassroots network in Dawakin Kudu/Warawa could add weight to the NDC’s mobilization efforts.

However, it remains unclear whether Dawaki will automatically secure the party’s ticket for any elective position.

NDC officials say candidate selection will follow internal screening and consensus processes.

More details on Dawaki’s political plans and portfolio within the NDC are expected in the coming days.

The defection further underscores the shifting political alliances as parties reposition for the 2027 general elections.