Former Speaker of Nigeria’s House of Representatives and ex-governor of Sokoto State, Aminu Waziri Tambuwal, has resigned his membership of the Peoples Democratic Party and defected to the African Democratic Congress.
Tambuwal announced his decision in the early hours of Thursday in a statement shared on his X account, revealing that he had already submitted a formal resignation letter to his ward chairman before joining the ADC alongside his political associates and loyal supporters.
According to him, the decision followed extensive consultations and careful reflection on the current situation within the PDP.
“After wide consultations with my political associates, supporters and stakeholders, I have come to the difficult conclusion that I can no longer continue as a member of the Peoples Democratic Party,” he said.
The former governor explained that persistent internal disputes and disagreements among party leaders contributed to his decision to leave the party.
“The party has been grappling with internal disagreements and divisions which have continued to weaken its cohesion and make it increasingly difficult for some of us to continue under the current circumstances,” Tambuwal stated.
He noted that the internal challenges had gradually eroded the unity and direction that once defined the PDP.
Tambuwal, however, acknowledged the role the party played in his political journey, describing it as a platform that provided him opportunities to serve the country.
“I remain grateful to the PDP for the opportunities it gave me to serve our nation, including my tenure as Speaker of the House of Representatives and later as Governor of Sokoto State,” he said.
Tambuwal served two terms as governor of Sokoto State after previously presiding over the House of Representatives.
Despite his appreciation of the party’s role in his career, he said the present realities within the PDP made it necessary for him to take a different political path.
Explaining his move to the ADC, Tambuwal said he believes the party offers a platform capable of strengthening democratic values and promoting national development.
“I have therefore decided to join the African Democratic Congress, which I believe offers a credible platform for advancing accountability, integrity and national development,” he added.
He further stated that he remains committed to the ideals of democracy, justice and national unity as he begins what he described as a new chapter in his political career.
Tambuwal’s defection adds to the growing number of politicians who have recently joined the ADC, including former Labour Party presidential candidate Peter Obi.
