Isa Ashiru Resigns from PDP, Defects to ADC as Party Exodus Intensifies
In a significant political development, Rt. Hon. Isa Ashiru, the former Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) gubernatorial candidate for Kaduna State in the 2023 elections, has officially resigned from the party. His departure, announced on Monday, March 30, 2026, marks a notable blow to the PDP, which is already grappling with a wave of defections ahead of the 2027 general elections.
Formal Resignation Letter Cites Internal Crises
Ashiru submitted a formal resignation letter dated Friday, March 27, 2026, addressed to the Ward Chairman of the PDP in Kudan Ward, Kudan Local Government, Kaduna State. In the letter, he expressed his decision with a deep sense of humility, stating that his resignation is effective immediately from that date.
"After a careful reflection over the persistent internal leadership crisis, conflicts, rancor and divisions within the PDP, it has become increasingly difficult for me to continue to participate actively as a member of the party," Ashiru wrote. He emphasized that this decision is personal and made in good faith, while reaffirming his commitment to serving the people and pursuing unity, progress, and good governance.
Background and Political Implications
Isa Ashiru, a businessman and traditional titleholder known as Sarkin Bai Zazzau, has a notable political career. He previously represented the Makarfi/Kudan Federal Constituency in the House of Representatives. In the 2023 gubernatorial election, he lost to the incumbent governor, Uba Sani of the All Progressives Congress (APC), amid ongoing internal turmoil within the PDP.
His resignation signals a defection to the African Democratic Congress (ADC), a move that has been welcomed by supporters who are optimistic about bolstering opposition strength in Kaduna State against the APC-led government. This shift is seen as a strategic realignment ahead of the 2027 elections, with many hoping it will rejuvenate the opposition's prospects in the region.
Broader Exodus Weakens PDP Structure
The PDP is currently facing significant attrition, with key leaders and lawmakers from states such as Taraba, Ondo, and Ebonyi also defecting to the APC in recent months. These departures are largely driven by persistent internal crises and shifts in loyalty, which have notably weakened the party's organizational structure and electoral viability.
This trend of defections highlights the challenges the PDP must overcome to remain a formidable opposition force. As more prominent figures exit, the party's ability to mount effective campaigns and governance alternatives is increasingly under threat, setting the stage for a highly competitive political landscape in the lead-up to 2027.
