Former Sokoto Senator Abubakar Gada Defects from ADC to PDP Ahead of 2027 Polls
In a significant political realignment ahead of the 2027 general elections, former Sokoto East Senator Abubakar Gada has officially left the African Democratic Party (ADC) to rejoin the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP). The defection, which occurred on Saturday, January 24, 2026, marks a strategic shift in Sokoto State's political landscape as parties gear up for the upcoming electoral contest.
Gada's Motivation: Reclaiming and Rebuilding PDP in Sokoto
Senator Gada explained that his decision to return to the PDP was primarily driven by a desire to reclaim and rebuild the party within Sokoto State. Speaking at a gathering of supporters in Sokoto, the former federal lawmaker emphasized that this move represents taking destiny into their own hands to strengthen opposition politics in the region.
"The situation left the ADC in limbo in Sokoto," Gada stated, referring to the political circumstances that prompted his defection. He argued that returning to the PDP provides a more viable platform for achieving their political objectives and serving the interests of Sokoto residents.
Criticism of Senator Tambuwal's Political Commitment
Central to Gada's defection announcement was his criticism of Senator Aminu Waziri Tambuwal, whom he accused of showing insufficient commitment to the ADC. Gada revealed that both politicians had initially been considered joint leaders of the ADC in Sokoto State after signaling interest in the party.
"You cannot be talking to APC on one hand, being promoted as a vice-presidential option for Peter Obi on the other hand, and still refuse to register or allow your followership to register in ADC," Gada asserted, highlighting what he perceived as contradictory political maneuvers.
The former senator alleged that Tambuwal, who joined the ADC in 2025 alongside Gada, refused to engage meaningfully with party building activities. This alleged lack of participation reportedly fueled doubts about Tambuwal's political intentions and created uncertainty within the ADC's Sokoto chapter.
Political Context and Broader Implications
Gada's defection occurs against a backdrop of ongoing political realignments across Nigeria as parties position themselves for the 2027 elections. The former senator also touched upon broader issues affecting Sokoto State, warning that insecurity has crippled farming activities and worsened poverty levels in the region.
Interestingly, Gada's move to the PDP comes shortly after he had received defectors from the All Progressives Congress (APC) into the ADC in Gada Local Government Area of Sokoto State. Those defectors had cited dissatisfaction with governance as their reason for leaving the APC.
The political landscape continues to evolve, with Gada emphasizing that "only God determines who wins elections" while simultaneously working to strengthen his political position through this party switch.
Recent ADC Developments Nationwide
This defection follows other notable movements involving the ADC, including Senator Enyinnaya Harcourt Abaribe's departure from the All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA) to join the ADC in December 2025. Abaribe, who represents Abia South senatorial district, made this move alongside 2023 Labour Party presidential candidate Peter Obi, indicating ongoing realignments within Nigeria's opposition politics.
As the 2027 elections approach, such defections and party switches are expected to continue shaping Nigeria's political terrain, with politicians seeking optimal platforms to advance their careers and influence electoral outcomes.
