In a significant political realignment ahead of the 2027 general elections, Simon Mwadkwon, the former Senate Minority Leader, has officially left the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) for the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC).
Defection Announcement and Strategic Move
Mwadkwon, who represented Plateau North in the 10th National Assembly and briefly served as Senate Minority Leader in 2023, made the declaration on Thursday, January 15, 2026. He announced his move during a visit to APC elders in the Barkin Ladi Local Government Area of Plateau State.
"I am here to formally announce my entry into the APC and to seek the counsel of party elders at the grassroots," Mwadkwon stated. He explained that his decision followed extensive consultations with constituents, political stakeholders, family, and associates across the six local government areas of Plateau North: Barkin Ladi, Riyom, Jos North, Jos South, Jos East, and Bassa.
He emphasized that the defection was driven by a strategic desire to collaborate with leaders committed to improved governance and amplifying the voices of his constituents. Mwadkwon clarified that this was not a symbolic gesture but a calculated step to strengthen the APC's structure in Plateau State and consolidate support for the upcoming 2027 polls.
2027 Senatorial Ambition Revealed
Central to his defection is a clear political ambition. Simon Mwadkwon revealed his plan to contest for the Plateau North Senatorial seat in the 2027 general elections. His political journey in the constituency has seen notable twists.
He initially won the 2023 senatorial election on the PDP platform. However, his victory was later nullified by the Court of Appeal, which ordered a rerun. The subsequent bye-election was won by Dachungyang Mwadkon of the Action Democratic Party (ADP), setting the stage for a highly anticipated rematch in 2027.
APC Elders Welcome New Member
The defection was warmly received by the APC leadership in Barkin Ladi. Solomon Bature, Chairman of the APC Elders’ Council in the local government, welcomed Mwadkwon, describing his entry as a significant boost for the party.
"We remain open to all Nigerians who are willing to abide by the principles of the APC," Bature said. "This defection is a boost for our party and we urge members to remain loyal and committed to our growth." The elders concluded the reception with prayers for Mwadkwon's success in his political aspirations, stressing the importance of unity and collective effort as the 2027 elections draw nearer.
This move marks another high-profile defection to the APC, following a recent trend that includes Abba Atiku Abubakar, son of former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, who also left the PDP to support President Bola Tinubu's re-election bid.
