Mass Defections Hit APC, NNPP, PDP as Politicians Move to ADC in Jigawa

A series of defections has affected the All Progressives Congress, the New Nigeria People’s Party, and the Peoples Democratic Party in Jigawa State, as several politicians and their supporters have moved to the African Democratic Congress.

On Sunday, a large crowd gathered in Dutse to welcome former senator Sabo Nakudu, who officially joined the ADC along with other defectors.

Nakudu, who represented Jigawa South-West Senatorial District for two terms, was received by party leaders and enthusiastic supporters. He had earlier resigned from the APC on Friday before completing his move to the ADC on Sunday.

Speaking after receiving his membership card, Nakudu expressed appreciation to his followers for their strong turnout and pledged to contribute to the development of Jigawa State and Nigeria as a whole. He is widely expected to contest the governorship election in 2027 under the ADC platform, having already begun consultations with key political stakeholders.

Another notable politician associated with the ADC is Aminu Ringim, who previously ran for governor in Jigawa State under the PDP in 2015 and 2019, and under the NNPP in 2023. Ringim, known to be aligned with Rabiu Kwankwaso, indicated that he would soon formally join the ADC at an event in his hometown.

Also in attendance was Ubale Shittu, a former senator who represented Jigawa North-East in the 8th National Assembly under the PDP before later defecting to the APC.

Earlier, the Jigawa State ADC coordinator, Ahmad Gumel, described the influx of new members as a major boost for the party, noting that it reflects its growing influence in the state. He highlighted Nakudu’s experience as a valuable addition.

Similarly, ADC leader Bashir Jumbo welcomed the new entrants and assured them of equal opportunities within the party. He called for unity among members, expressing optimism about winning power in 2027.

In response, the PDP’s state Public Relations Officer, Umar Kyari, dismissed the defections, claiming they did not involve significant party figures and describing the defectors as individuals seeking attention. He challenged the ADC to prove its strength at the polls.

The APC, through its spokesperson Bashir Kundu, also downplayed the situation, attributing the defections to personal ambitions rather than public interest. He maintained that the performance of Governor Umar Namadi would continue to attract support to the party.

Attempts to get a reaction from the NNPP were unsuccessful, as party officials could not be reached at the time.