Insists Senator Ibrahim Lamido Is Not From The State
The Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Sokoto State, Alhaji Isa Sadiq Achida, has paid a glowing tribute to Senator Aliyu Magatakarda Wamakko, describing him as the pillar of Sokoto State politics and the soul of the APC in the state.
In a wide-ranging interview, Achida emphasised that Wamakko’s open-door leadership style, selfless mentorship, and unwavering commitment to the welfare of the people are simply unmatched.
“Wamakko is not just a political leader; he is a humanitarian and a father figure to millions. He doesn’t hoard wealth; he gives generously, and his doors are always open. He is everything a true leader should be,” Achida stated.
Achida further revealed that Governor Ahmed Aliyu owes much of his success to Wamakko’s guidance and mentorship, adding that the APC’s dominance in Sokoto is a direct result of the political structure Wamakko built, which the governor has further solidified through his stellar performance.
“Our father, Wamakko, is the reason Sokoto remains solidly APC. His grassroots connection, unmatched generosity, and strategic wisdom will always make the difference,” he said.
He reassured party members and the people of Sokoto State that the Ahmed Aliyu–Wamakko partnership will continue to deliver development, stability, and prosperity well beyond 2027.
Achida also disclosed that the Sokoto State chapter of the APC has officially passed a resounding vote of confidence in the administration of Governor Ahmed Aliyu, citing his exceptional performance over the past two years as a benchmark for good governance in Nigeria.
He praised the governor’s bold leadership, prudent financial management, and people-centred policies, declaring that the governor has not only fulfilled his campaign promises but has exceeded expectations across critical sectors including water supply, education, infrastructure, civil service welfare, and security.
“Governor Ahmed Aliyu is a worthy ambassador of the APC who, in less than two years, has achieved what his predecessor couldn’t accomplish in eight years. He’s not just cleaning up the mess left by the Tambuwal administration; he’s transforming Sokoto State,” Achida said.
He added that in recognition of his outstanding service, the party has unanimously adopted him as the APC’s sole candidate for the 2027 gubernatorial election, invoking the principle of right of first refusal.
“While the APC remains a democratic party open to internal contest, we are confident that no aspirant can match the track record of Governor Ahmed Aliyu. His work speaks for itself,” Achida stressed.
Meanwhile, the APC chieftain has insisted that Senator Ibrahim Lamido is not from Sokoto State, declaring that the era of non-indigenes taking the hospitality of Sokoto State people for granted is over. He said, “While Sokoto will remain a welcoming and accommodating state, that generosity must never be repaid with betrayal or insults. ”
He further stressed, “Senator Ibrahim Lamido is not from Sokoto State, he is from Zamfara State. If he wishes to contest the 2027 elections, he should do so in his home state. He is welcome to live in Sokoto like every other law-abiding Nigerian is welcome, but certainly not as a future political representative of our people.”
Achida made the remarks in response to reports that Lamido is reportedly leading a faction of the APC in the state. He dismissed the claim, reiterating that moving forward the party owes Lamido neither an apology nor reconciliation because the party didn’t offend him; rather he has been waging a relentless campaign against the party.
“There is nothing to reconcile with Senator Lamido. The APC did absolutely nothing to him. He has been the one fighting the party from within. And even if reconciliation were to occur, we would never trust him with the senatorial ticket again. A leopard doesn’t change its spots,” Achida said.
He expressed outrage over Lamido’s attacks on Wamakko. “How on earth can Lamido insult Senator Wamakko?” he asked. “That was the final red line. Senator Wamakko made it possible for him to be a senator. His betrayal is unforgivable.”
Achida described Lamido as a political liability who couldn’t even win his polling unit, let alone his local government area in the 2023 general election. “How can such a man be a factional leader of the party,” Achida queried.
