PDP Federal Lawmaker Abdullahi El-Rasheed Defects to APC in Gombe State
In a significant political development, Hon. Abdullahi El-Rasheed, a member of the House of Representatives representing Dukku/Nafada Federal Constituency, has officially defected from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to the All Progressives Congress (APC). The defection was formally announced on Thursday, February 12, 2026, marking another shift in Nigeria's political landscape.
Formal Presentation of APC Card to Governor Yahaya
The federal lawmaker, also known as Bala Kelly, presented his newly acquired APC membership card to Gombe State Governor Muhammadu Inuwa Yahaya at the Gombe State Liaison Office in Abuja. This presentation occurred during the ongoing nationwide e-registration and revalidation exercise conducted by the APC. Hon. El-Rasheed obtained his card from his ward in Dukku Local Government Area, solidifying his transition to the ruling party.
According to a statement issued by Governor Yahaya's spokesman, Ismaila Uba Misilli, and reported by Daily Trust, the defection ceremony was a carefully orchestrated political event. The governor's office confirmed the lawmaker's move, emphasizing its significance for the APC's strength in Gombe State and the broader North-East region.
Reasons Cited for the Defection
Hon. El-Rasheed provided clear reasons for his political realignment, highlighting several key factors that influenced his decision:
- Progressive Leadership: The lawmaker praised Governor Yahaya's leadership style, describing it as forward-thinking and effective in driving development.
- People-Oriented Policies: He noted the governor's policies are designed to benefit the ordinary citizens of Gombe State, making the APC a more attractive platform.
- Visible Development Strides: El-Rasheed pointed to tangible infrastructure and social projects implemented under the APC administration in Gombe.
- President Tinubu's Reform Agenda: The reform-driven agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu at the federal level also contributed to his decision, as he believes it aligns with sustainable development goals.
In his statement, Hon. El-Rasheed expressed confidence that the APC is better positioned to deliver sustainable development and good governance compared to the PDP. He pledged his unalloyed loyalty and commitment to the party and its leadership under Governor Yahaya, promising to work diligently for the benefit of his constituency.
Governor Yahaya's Response and Assurance
Governor Muhammadu Inuwa Yahaya welcomed the new APC member with open arms, assuring him of a level playing field within the party. The governor urged Hon. El-Rasheed to collaborate with other APC stakeholders to advance the development agenda of the party. This collaboration is expected to benefit not only the Dukku/Nafada Federal Constituency but also Gombe State and Nigeria as a whole.
Governor Yahaya emphasized the importance of unity and teamwork in achieving the APC's objectives, particularly in preparation for future electoral cycles. His assurance of equal opportunities signals the party's intent to integrate defectors seamlessly into its structure.
Broader Political Context and Recent Defections
This defection is part of a larger trend of political realignments across Nigeria. Recently, other notable figures have also switched parties, indicating shifting alliances ahead of the 2027 general elections:
- Nasarawa Deputy Speaker: Muhammad Adamu Oyanki defected from the PDP to the APC during a visit to Governor Abdullahi Sule in Lafia. His move was seen as a political boost for the APC in Nasarawa State, though he was expected to formally notify the House Speaker upon resumption of legislative duties.
- Taraba Senators: Two senators from Taraba State, Haruna Manu and Shuaibu Lau, defected from the PDP to the APC. Their exit has deepened the PDP's internal crisis in the North-East region, while APC sources have welcomed it as strengthening the party's political foothold.
These defections highlight the fluid nature of Nigerian politics, where party loyalty can shift based on leadership, policy directions, and electoral prospects. The APC has actively capitalized on these movements to bolster its ranks, particularly in regions where the PDP has faced internal challenges.
Hon. Abdullahi El-Rasheed's defection underscores the ongoing political realignments in Nigeria, driven by factors such as leadership quality, development outcomes, and strategic party positioning. As the 2027 elections approach, such moves are likely to continue shaping the political landscape, with both the APC and PDP vying for dominance through recruitment and retention of key figures.
