*Senator Sunday Marshall Katung has dismissed concerns over his controversial switch from the Peoples Democratic Party to the All Progressives Congress, insisting the decision was driven by Southern Kaduna’s development needs.*
The lawmaker made the declaration on Saturday during a colourful reception ceremony in Kafanchan, Kaduna State, where he was formally welcomed into the ruling party amidst fanfare and a massive turnout of supporters.
“We are confident that Southern Kaduna will benefit immensely from this singular act of alignment,” Katung told the gathering, which included senior government officials and party stalwarts.
The defection, regarded by political observers as a significant realignment in Southern Kaduna’s political terrain, saw President Bola Ahmed Tinubu represented by his Chief of Staff, Rt. Hon. Femi Gbajabiamila. Also in attendance were the Speaker of the House of Representatives, Rt. Hon. Abbas Tajudeen, PhD; Kaduna State Governor, Senator Uba Sani; and the Senior Special Assistant to the President on Political Matters, Malam Kabir Ibrahim Masari.
Katung justified his move by highlighting recent federal approvals for Southern Kaduna, including the establishment of a Federal University of Applied Sciences with a College of Medicine and a Federal Medical Centre. He described these projects as evidence of President Tinubu’s commitment to balanced national development.
The senator pledged unwavering support for both the President and Governor Sani, stating: “To Governor Uba Sani, I say: you will never walk alone in Southern Kaduna. To Mr President, I affirm: you will never be alone again in Southern Kaduna.”
Katung emphasised that his decision was not motivated by personal ambition but by the collective interests of his constituents. He stressed his dedication to promoting peace, progress, and shared prosperity across the region.
APC leaders have described the senator’s entry as a major political victory for the ruling party in Southern Kaduna, particularly with elections on the horizon. Party chieftains believe his political structure and grassroots support will significantly strengthen the APC’s electoral prospects in the area.
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