Tambuwal dumps PDP for ADC, cites deepening crisis

By Gbolahan Salman Sokoto

Senator Aminu Waziri Tambuwal, a former governor of Sokoto State and current senator representing Sokoto South, has resigned from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and defected to the African Democratic Congress (ADC), citing persistent internal crises and divisions within his former party.

Tambuwal disclosed this in a resignation letter dated March 11, 2026,  addressed to the PDP ward chairman in Tambuwal/Shinfiri Ward of Tambuwal Local Government Area of the state and made available to newsmen on Thursday.

The former Speaker of the House of Representatives of Nigeria said the decision followed wide consultations and deep reflection with political associates and supporters.

He explained that the lingering disputes and leadership disagreements in the PDP had made it increasingly difficult for him to remain in the party.

“After deep reflection and extensive consultations with my political associates and supporters, I have decided to resign my membership of the Peoples Democratic Party with immediate effect,” Tambuwal stated.

He added that the protracted internal conflicts within the PDP had weakened the unity and direction that once defined the party.

“The persistent internal crises, leadership disagreements and growing divisions within the party have made it increasingly difficult for me to continue my membership,” he said.

Despite his exit, the senator expressed appreciation to the PDP for the opportunities it gave him to serve the country in various capacities.

“I remain grateful to the party for the platform it provided me to serve Nigeria as Speaker of the House of Representatives and later as Governor of Sokoto State,” he noted.

Tambuwal confirmed that he has now joined the ADC alongside his political associates and supporters, describing the move as part of efforts to strengthen democratic values and provide a credible political alternative.

“My decision is guided by the conviction that Nigeria requires a stronger political platform built on integrity, accountability, inclusiveness and a clear commitment to national development,” he added.

He reaffirmed his commitment to the service of Nigeria and the promotion of democracy, justice and national unity.

Tambuwal, who served as Speaker of the House of Representatives between 2011 and 2015, later emerged governor of Sokoto State in 2015 under the All Progressives Congress (APC) before returning to the PDP later that year. He was re-elected governor in 2019 and completed his second term in 2023 before moving to the Senate.

His defection to the ADC is expected to reshape the political landscape in Sokoto State, where he remains one of the most influential political figures.

The PDP has in recent years been battling internal disputes at both national and state levels, leading to defections and realignments ahead of future electoral contests.