By Nnasom David

Some residents of Mashi/Dutsi, Bakori/Danja, and Batsari/Danmusa/Safana federal constituencies of Katsina State have expressed their displeasure over the recent defection of their representatives to the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC).

The members representing these constituencies at the House of Representatives—Salisu Yusuf Majigiri (Mashi/Dutsi), Aliyu Ilyasu Ruma (Batsari/Danmusa/Safana), and Abdullahi Balarabe Dabai (Bakori/Danja)—announced their defection to the APC during a plenary session at the lower chamber last week.

In reaction, some constituents voiced their disapproval of the lawmakers’ decision, expressing concerns that the move did not align with the needs of the communities.

A resident of Dabai, Jamilu Sarkin Aiki Dabai, questioned the lawmakers’ decision, citing ongoing security challenges and limited infrastructure development in the state. He noted that many expected more focus on addressing these issues rather than political realignment.

Following the defection, Salisu Yusuf Majigiri, the representative for Mashi/Dutsi, appeared on a radio program to explain his reasons for leaving the opposition PDP. His comments sparked significant reactions from constituents, many of whom expressed their disappointment, feeling the move did not prioritize community interests.

A resident of Mashi, who requested anonymity, remarked, “We are facing hardship and deprivation. What reason does the lawmaker have to join APC if not for political alignment? He has wasted our votes and betrayed the trust we placed in him. We will make our voices heard at the polls in 2027.”

The reactions continued on social media, with over 2,000 comments on Facebook criticizing the lawmakers’ defection, while a handful of responses showed support.

Meanwhile, a ward official of the PDP in Katsina, who preferred to remain unnamed, shared insights on the situation, suggesting that party members chose to remain committed to their current political alignment despite pressures to switch parties.

The recent defections have sparked debates on political loyalty and representation, with many constituents pledging to hold their representatives accountable in future elections.