Reported by: Oahimire Omone Precious | Edited by: Pierre Antoine
Aminu Waziri Tambuwal, a two‑term governor of Sokoto State and immediate past Speaker of the House of Representatives, has officially resigned his membership of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and announced his defection to the African Democratic Congress (ADC), citing persistent internal disputes and leadership crises within the PDP as reasons for his departure.
In a formal statement issued by his office, Tambuwal said he had communicated his resignation in writing to his ward chairman, marking the end of a long political association with the PDP that spanned several years and included some of the most significant roles in Nigeria’s political landscape. Tambuwal expressed gratitude for the “opportunities it gave me to serve our nation,” referencing his tenures as Speaker of the House of Representatives and as governor of Sokoto State.
He described the internal dynamics of the PDP in recent years as increasingly untenable, noting that “persistent internal crisis, leadership disagreements, and growing divisions within the PDP” have eroded the unity and strategic direction that once defined the party. These developments, he said, made it “increasingly difficult to continue my membership of the party.”
As a result of these concerns, Tambuwal announced that he had “officially joined the African Democratic Congress (ADC) with my associates and supporters.” He characterised the move as rooted in his belief that Nigeria needs “a stronger political platform built on integrity, accountability, inclusiveness, and a clear commitment to national development.” Despite the switch, he reaffirmed his commitment to public service and to principles he said should underpin Nigeria’s democratic governance, including justice and national unity.
Tambuwal’s departure marks a notable loss for the PDP, a party that has historically been one of Nigeria’s two dominant political platforms since the return to democratic rule in 1999. His exit comes amid ongoing internal tensions within the party, which has faced factional disputes, leadership struggles, and contestations over strategic direction at both national and state levels.
Political analysts say that Tambuwal’s defection could have broader implications for party dynamics ahead of forthcoming elections, as his influence and network extend across key regions in northern Nigeria. Tambuwal, who served as Speaker of the House of Representatives from 2011 to 2015 during a crucial period of legislative activity, later returned to his home state where he was elected governor in 2015 and re‑elected for a second term in 2019. His political career has been marked by significant national profiles, alliances, and a reputation for strategic decision‑making.
The African Democratic Congress, the party he has now joined, has sought to position itself as an alternative platform with a focus on reformist ideals. Tambuwal’s decision to bring his supporters and political apparatus into the ADC is likely to boost the party’s visibility and organisational capacity, particularly in states where he holds substantial influence.
Tambuwal’s move also reflects a broader pattern of defections and realignments among Nigerian politicians in the lead‑up to major electoral cycles. Political observers note that defections often reshape electoral equations, with high‑profile figures carrying personal followings that can alter local and state political landscapes.
In his statement, Tambuwal emphasised his continued commitment to the service of the country and to democratic values, suggesting that his decision was not driven by personal ambition alone but by what he described as a principled search for a political home aligned with his vision for national progress.
Stone Reporters note that the development adds to the evolving narrative of party politics in Nigeria, highlighting ongoing tensions within established political structures and the rise of new or secondary parties seeking to expand their relevance. The coming months are expected to reveal how Tambuwal’s defection affects alliances, voter mobilisation, and strategic partnerships as political parties prepare for competitive elections.
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