Kebbi Senator Defects from APC to ADC, Citing Party Crisis

The political landscape in Kebbi State has shifted as Senator Garba Maidoki, representing Kebbi South, formally announced his defection from the All Progressives Congress (APC) to the African Democratic Congress (ADC). His decision underscores growing dissatisfaction within the ruling party over unresolved disputes from recent primaries.

Announcement at Senate Plenary

Maidoki, who chairs the Senate Committee on Legislative Compliance and serves as Vice Chairman of the Senate Committee on Information and National Orientation, conveyed his defection in a letter addressed to Senate President Godswill Akpabio. The letter was read during Tuesday’s plenary session, making his departure official.

The senator explained that his move followed extensive consultations with constituents, stressing that the ADC aligns more closely with the interests of his district.

Fallout from APC Primaries

Maidoki was among aspirants reportedly excluded from the APC primaries in Kebbi State. He noted that lingering internal crises within the party, particularly disputes arising from the primaries, influenced his decision.

“There is a lingering internal crisis in the APC, especially arising from the Kebbi primary elections. After due consultation with my constituents, I have decided to defect to the ADC, which I believe aligns more with the interests of my district,” Maidoki stated.

Senate Leadership Appeals for Reconsideration

Deputy Senate President Jibrin Barau attempted to dissuade Maidoki from leaving the APC. He described the disputes in Kebbi as family issues that could be resolved through reconciliation.

“I wish to intervene and plead with the distinguished senator to rescind his decision. There is no internal problem in the APC in Kebbi State. This is more of a family dispute and we can reconcile,” Barau said.

Despite the appeal, Maidoki stood firm, insisting that his decision was final.

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Earlier Resignation from APC

Maidoki’s defection did not come as a surprise. In May, ahead of the APC senatorial primaries, he had already resigned from the party. His resignation letter, dated May 14, 2026, was addressed to the APC Ward Chairman of Rafin Zuru Ward in Zuru Local Government Area.

Broader Political Implications

Maidoki’s move adds to a growing list of politicians defecting from the APC to the ADC ahead of the 2027 general elections. Analysts say the defections reflect dissatisfaction with the conduct of party primaries and unresolved internal disputes.

The ADC, though smaller in national reach, has increasingly positioned itself as an alternative platform for politicians disenchanted with the APC and the People’s Democratic Party (PDP). Maidoki’s defection is expected to boost the party’s visibility in Kebbi South and potentially reshape local political dynamics.

Constituency Considerations

By citing consultations with constituents, Maidoki framed his defection as a decision rooted in grassroots concerns. His emphasis on aligning with district interests suggests he intends to leverage the ADC platform to strengthen his political base ahead of 2027.

Senator Garba Maidoki’s defection from the APC to the ADC highlights persistent cracks within the ruling party, particularly in Kebbi State. While APC leaders continue to downplay the disputes as reconcilable, Maidoki’s departure signals that internal conflicts remain unresolved. As Nigeria heads toward the 2027 general elections, such defections may influence party strategies and voter alignments across the country.