The Lagos State chapter of the All Progressives Congress (APC) has described former Kano State Governor Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso’s defection to the African Democratic Congress (ADC) as overhyped, attributing it to personal ambition rather than national interest.

In a statement released by its spokesperson, Hon. Seye Oladejo, the party expressed skepticism over claims that Kwankwaso’s move signals a major political shift. It argued that closer scrutiny points to self-interest as the driving factor.

The APC alleged that the defection is linked to Kwankwaso’s long-standing pursuit of a presidential or vice-presidential ticket, describing the move as a calculated effort to advance personal political goals rather than a commitment to governance or ideological alignment.

The party also questioned the influence of the Kwankwasiyya movement, claiming it has weakened due to the exit of key stakeholders, including prominent leaders in Kano State.

“Senator Kwankwaso has long publicly declared that any defection on his part must guarantee him a Presidential or Vice Presidential ticket. This defection, therefore, is less a genuine commitment to national interest or ideological alignment, and more a calculated exercise in self-aggrandizement,” the statement said.

According to Lagos APC, the former governor’s political prominence has been overstated, noting that real influence should be measured by the ability to sustain alliances, build trust, and deliver results.

The party criticized what it called opportunistic defections, reiterating its commitment to disciplined and principle-based politics. It warned that moves driven by personal ambition could distract from national governance priorities.

“It is becoming increasingly clear that Senator Kwankwaso’s political influence has been overstated. What is being sold as a strategic realignment is, in reality, an ego-driven, opportunistic maneuver,” the statement added.

Lagos APC maintained that Nigerians deserve leadership focused on national development, emphasizing that Kwankwaso’s defection should not be viewed as a significant political gain.

The statement concluded that the development raises questions about motivations behind political realignments, underscoring the distinction between personal ambition and genuine public service.