More than 50,000 members of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Sokoto have defected to the African Democratic Congress (ADC) coalition.
The defection, which took place in Gada LGA, was led by Abubakar Gada, a former senator, who described the move as a turning point in the struggle to “liberate the state and the country” from years of hardship.
Addressing thousands of supporters, Gada said the defection reflects growing frustration with the APC-led government, especially in northern communities grappling with insecurity, poverty, and unemployment.
“Every citizen has the right to take security for granted. In our case, it is not like that. We have to struggle together to bring security within the reach of all,” he said.
He added that security and economic revival will top the coalition’s agenda, noting that persistent banditry has crippled agriculture in Sokoto and forced many farmers into poverty.
On fears that the ruling party might deploy state machinery to retain power in 2027, Gada said “God gives power and not man”.
“We have seen governments with all the machinery of state lose elections. Once citizens collectively resolve to change their destiny, no force can stop them,” he said.
Reacting to speculations of late President Muhammadu Buhari’s alleged support for the coalition, the former lawmaker said such claims are “a hoax”.
“Even if he is alive, nobody will ever rely on him to save the country, as he himself could not do anything during his tenure. He caused the tragedy in which we are all living today,” Gada said.
He urged Nigerians to take their destiny into their own hands, stressing that the movement’s focus is to drive political change from the grassroots to the presidency by 2027.
“The growing wave of defections to the ADC is proof that Nigerians are ready to chart a new course, anchored on peace, security, and prosperity for all..
“We cannot and will not abandon the struggle for collective salvation. Together, we can restore Nigeria’s fortune and pride, and with determination, it will surely come to pass,” he stated.
