As the race for the 2027 general elections accelerates, recent developments in Borno State indicate a significant political shift with the African Democratic Congress (ADC) gaining momentum. Following the inauguration of David Mark, former President of the Nigerian Senate, as the interim national chairman of the ADC, a wave of defections from the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) and the All Progressives Congress (APC) has been reported.
A trending video on social media shows Mattawali Kashim Ibrahim Imam, a former PDP gubernatorial candidate and APC stalwart, hosting a special dinner at his Maiduguri residence. The gathering, attended by several political heavyweights, included discussions about plans to formally join the ADC.
Notably, two of Nigeria’s prominent opposition figures—former PDP presidential candidate Alhaji Atiku Abubakar and former Labour Party (LP) candidate Mr. Peter Obi—have also aligned themselves with the ADC after breaking away from their respective parties.
Contrary to speculation circulating in some online media, Borno State Governor, Professor Babagana Umara Zulum, has publicly dismissed rumors suggesting that he would lead a mass defection of five other governors to the ADC.
In Borno, several key figures, including Alh. Idris Mamman Durkwa, a former governorship aspirant, and Hon. Sheriff Banki, a youth mobilizer and stakeholder advocate, have taken the lead in this exodus from the PDP. They, along with thousands of supporters and associates, are now rallying behind the ADC.
Durkwa, a retired federal civil servant and aspiring politician, has spearheaded this significant wave of defections. Reports indicate a growing trend as members from various opposition parties, including the ruling APC, are resigning en masse and informing their ward chairmen of their new affiliations.
Among the noteworthy defectors are Hon. Mohammed Umara Kumalia, the former House minority leader; Hon. Saleh Kida, the PDP’s 2023 deputy gubernatorial candidate; and Alh. Ali Wurge, a former PDP national treasurer. Additional signatories to this political movement include candidates for the House of Representatives from the PDP and former party executives across all levels.
Hon. Sheriff Banki shared insights with our correspondent in Maiduguri, stating that the recent surge in defections reflects widespread dissatisfaction with the APC’s governance under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu. He criticized the PDP leadership for alienating its base, attributing the losses to “selfish interests” and mismanagement.
Banki pointed out that the local electorate is grappling with escalating economic hardships and insecurity, making it imperative for them to seek alternatives. “I am pleased to report that this wave of defection marks the beginning of positive change in our political landscape,” he stated. He urged the populace to rally around the ADC, emphasizing its commitment to fostering an inclusive democracy that truly represents the interests of the people.
In summary, the ADC is navigating a crucial political landscape in Nigeria as it positions itself as the main opposition party, capitalizing on the dissatisfaction with the current government while attracting influential political figures and their constituents in Borno State. As the 2027 elections approach, these developments could significantly reshape Nigeria’s political dynamics.