Former Senator Kabiru Gaya Defects from APC to ADC, Criticizes Party's Direction
In a significant political development, former Kano South Senator Kabiru Ibrahim Gaya has officially defected from the All Progressives Congress (APC) to join the African Democratic Congress (ADC). This move adds to a growing list of prominent political figures abandoning the ruling party ahead of the 2027 elections.
Resignation Letter and Immediate Effect
Gaya's resignation was formalized in a letter dated Sunday, April 5, 2026, addressed to the APC Ward Chairman in Gaya local government area of Kano State. The letter was promptly acknowledged by APC's Arewa Ward Chairman, Adam A. Adam, who confirmed that the defection took effect immediately.
In his correspondence, Gaya expressed gratitude to the APC for the platform it provided him over the years, stating, "I extend my sincere gratitude to the party for the platform it provided me and for the cooperation and camaraderie extended over the years."
Reasons for Defection: Security Concerns and Party Deviation
The former federal lawmaker explained that his decision followed careful reflection and wide consultation with stakeholders. He emphasized that leaving the APC aligns with both his personal convictions and the best interests of his constituents.
Gaya offered a pointed critique of his former party's current state, particularly regarding security matters. "APC was founded on good principles, but it has now deviated," he stated. "For a good eight years, APC was on track. Insecurity is now everywhere. During Buhari's tenure, insecurity was only in the northeast; now it's all over the country."
This criticism highlights growing concerns about security challenges across Nigeria's six geopolitical zones, which Gaya believes the APC has failed to adequately address.
Political Relationships and Context
Gaya disclosed that he maintains cordial relationships with other key political figures in Kano, including Senator Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso and former deputy governor Nasiru Yusuf Gawuna. This suggests his defection may be part of broader political realignments in the state ahead of the 2027 elections.
His move follows similar defections by other prominent APC members to the ADC, including former Jigawa Central Senator Sabo Muhammad Nakudu, who recently left the ruling party and announced his intention to contest the Jigawa governorship in 2027. Nakudu has emphasized grassroots development as a priority, and several notable APC figures have joined his defection, intensifying political competition.
Broader Political Realignment
The ADC appears to be gaining momentum as an alternative political platform, attracting disaffected members from various parties. In another significant development, Godfrey Gaiya, an aide to Speaker Tajudeen Abbas, recently left the APC to join the ADC and declared his intention to contest the Kaduna South Senatorial seat.
Gaiya cited public demand for welfare-focused and inclusive politics as reasons for his party switch, echoing similar sentiments expressed by other defectors. These moves signal a major pre-2027 political realignment that could reshape Nigeria's political landscape.
Gaya's defection represents another blow to the APC's cohesion in northern Nigeria, particularly in Kano State where political dynamics have been increasingly fluid. As more heavyweight politicians abandon the ruling party, questions arise about its ability to maintain unity and address internal dissatisfaction ahead of the next election cycle.
