APC Chieftain Salihu Tanko Yakasai Resigns, Joins ADC Ahead of 2027 Elections
In a significant political development, Salihu Tanko Yakasai, popularly known as Dawisu, has officially resigned from the All Progressives Congress (APC) and joined the African Democratic Congress (ADC) in preparation for the 2027 general elections. Yakasai, a former aide to Abdullahi Ganduje, who once served as APC national chairman, announced this move on Monday, March 23, 2026, from Kano, Kano State.
Yakasai's Decision and Announcement
Yakasai made the announcement via his verified X (formerly Twitter) account, where he shared his resignation letter and ADC membership card. He stated that the decision followed extensive consultations with family, friends, and political associates over time, leading to a resolution to move to the ADC as part of a new direction. He confirmed that he has tendered his resignation from the APC and completed his registration with the ADC.
He encouraged others to join the opposition party, noting that membership registration is available online at adcregistration.ng, with membership cards issued shortly after registration. Yakasai concluded his post with a prayer, asking for Allah's mercy to make the decision beneficial and grant the ADC the opportunity to form government at all levels for the good of all Nigerians.
Background and Political Context
Yakasai was the Kano State Peoples Redemption Party (PRP) governorship candidate in the 2023 elections before his recent defection. His move comes amid ongoing political realignments ahead of the 2027 elections, highlighting shifting loyalties within Nigeria's political landscape. This development follows earlier reports of other political figures, such as former senator Abdulaziz Nyako, who defected from the ADC to the APC, indicating a dynamic and fluid political environment.
Public Reaction on Social Media
The announcement sparked varied reactions from netizens on social media platform X. Some users congratulated Yakasai for his decision, with comments praising his move as a step towards freedom and a new direction. For instance, one user wrote, Congratulations for the freedom. I never knew you have such calculations before when you were with Baba G. I dropped many bad words before you leave APC. I started realising you’re indeed a good man.
Others expressed support for the ADC, with messages like, You've made a very good decision to join the ADC. Wishing you all the best with this new direction. A New Nigeria Is Possible. However, some critics questioned Yakasai's motivations, suggesting his criticism of the administration might have been driven by party affiliation rather than genuine concern, especially since he wasn't given a position in the APC.
Implications for the 2027 Elections
Yakasai's defection is expected to influence political dynamics in Kano State and beyond, as he brings experience and a following from his previous roles. It underscores the ongoing preparations and strategic moves by political parties and individuals ahead of the 2027 elections, with the ADC potentially gaining momentum as an opposition force. This event adds to a series of political shifts, including other high-profile defections, that could reshape voter alignments and party strategies in the coming years.
As the political landscape evolves, such moves highlight the importance of party loyalty, personal ambitions, and public perception in Nigeria's electoral processes. Observers will be watching closely to see how this and similar defections impact the APC and ADC's fortunes in the lead-up to the 2027 polls.
