Saidu Umar Ubandoma, who was the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) candidate in the 2023 Sokoto State governorship election, has formally joined the All Progressives Congress (APC). The defection occurred at the Abuja residence of Senator Aliyu Magatakarda Wamakko in the Asokoro district. Bashar Abubakar, Wamakko's Special Assistant on Media and Publicity, confirmed the development in an official statement.
Ubandoma's Political Background
Ubandoma previously served as Commissioner for Finance and later as Secretary to the Sokoto State Government under former Governor Aminu Waziri Tambuwal. After his 2023 governorship bid on the PDP platform, he briefly aligned with the African Democratic Congress (ADC) before making his latest move to the APC.
Wamakko Welcomes Defection as Boost for APC
Senator Wamakko described Ubandoma's defection as evidence of the APC's growing acceptance in Sokoto State. According to Vanguard, Wamakko said: "This defection is a significant boost to our party and a clear demonstration of the confidence that political leaders continue to have in the APC's leadership and development agenda." He pledged that Ubandoma and his supporters would be treated fairly and given equal opportunities within the party.
Ubandoma Explains Decision
Ubandoma cited his admiration for Wamakko's political leadership and the achievements of Governor Ahmed Aliyu's administration as key reasons for switching parties. He specifically pointed to progress in infrastructure, education, healthcare, agriculture, and rural development. As reported by Nigerian Tribune, Ubandoma stated: "I was inspired by the quality of leadership and political maturity demonstrated by Senator Aliyu Magatakarda Wamakko, as well as the remarkable performance of Governor Ahmed Aliyu in delivering people-oriented projects across Sokoto State."
Impact on PDP in Sokoto
As a prominent figure within former Governor Tambuwal's political circle, Ubandoma's exit is considered a notable blow to the PDP's standing in Sokoto State. The move is expected to shift the political balance ahead of future elections.
