Labour party betrayed Auta despite enormous contributions – Business Associate, Yahaya
By: Austine Emmanuel, Kaduna
http://www.newsportng.com.ng Hon. Elisha Yahaya, a Business Associate with Engr. Michael Ayuba Auta has accused the Labour party of betraying his friend despite his enormous contributions to the party in the 2023 general elections.
Hon. Elisha expressed his dismay while fielding questions from journalists in Kaduna on Sunday during the official defection of Auta to the rulling All Progressive Congress, (APC)
According to him, Engr. Auta singlehandedly sponsored the LP in Kaduna state and other Northern states, a gesture that he said was mar by lack of unity and trust by other supposed party Chieftains.
“Michael built LP in Kaduna, Kano, Niger, and Jigawa within six months. Yet, those he trusted turned against him. It affected his business, but we, his partners, always knew his worth,” Yahaya said.
Meanwhile, Ayuba has disclosed that his decision to join the APC was informed by the realities on ground and the overwhelming call from his people.
He praised President Tinubu and Governor Uba Sani for fostering peace and inclusivity in Kaduna State, noting that the appointment of General Christopher Musa as Chief of Defence Staff was a clear signal that Southern Kaduna had been embraced.
“This government has given us a sense of belonging. Today, our people can go to their farms and businesses without fear. Unlike the previous administration, President Tinubu and Governor Uba Sani has not segregated us,” Auta stated.
Recalling his political strength, he reminded his supporters of his ability to mobilize grassroots support, citing his role in securing 294,000 votes for Peter Obi in 2023 without government backing.
“If I could achieve that as an opposition figure, imagine what we will do in 2027. I guarantee one million votes for President Tinubu and Governor Uba Sani. The APC no longer has a problem in Southern Kaduna,” he declared.
His defection was met with enthusiasm from APC members. Hon. Dare Isuwa, the Fai Ward Chairman, described it as “the happiest day of my life,” expressing confidence that Auta’s influence would strengthen APC’s grip on the region.
“He has labored for this party before, and now that he is back, APC will only grow stronger. We are issuing his membership card today, and I have no doubt that whatever he contests under APC, he will succeed,” Isuwa said.
With Auta’s defection, Southern Kaduna’s political dynamics are set for a major shift, as APC consolidates its hold ahead of the 2027 elections.
