Major Political Shake-Up in Nigeria as Aminu Tambuwal Defects from PDP to ADC

BY UCHECHI OKPORIE

Veteran Nigeria politician Aminu Waziri Tambuwal, a former Speaker of the House of Representatives and ex-governor of Sokoto State, has dramatically resigned from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), dealing another major blow to Nigeria’s main opposition party.

Tambuwal announced his resignation on Thursday, confirming that he had formally communicated his decision to his ward chairman before aligning with the African Democratic Congress (ADC) alongside several political associates and supporters

In a statement, the Sokoto South senator said his departure followed months of consultations and deep reflection, blaming persistent internal crises, leadership disputes, and widening divisions within the PDP for his decision.

acknowledged the role the PDP played in shaping his political career but argued that the party’s growing instability had weakened its unity and direction, making continued membership untenable.

The move marks a significant political shift ahead of Nigeria’s 2027 elections, as the ADC continues to attract influential politicians seeking a new platform amid turbulence within traditional opposition structures. Analysts say Tambuwal’s defection could reshape political alliances, particularly in northern Nigeria where he remains a powerful political figure.

Tambuwal previously served as Speaker of Nigeria’s House of Representatives between 2011 and 2015 and later governed Sokoto State for two terms before winning election to the Senate representing Sokoto South.