Hundreds of members of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Sokoto State have defected to the opposition African Democratic Congress (ADC), citing worsening economic hardship, escalating insecurity, and growing public disillusionment with the ruling party.
The defectors, drawn from Samo Village in Tambuwal Local Government Area, formally announced their decision at the Sokoto State ADC Secretariat. The group—comprising women, youth leaders, and grassroots mobilisers from the Faga/Alasan political ward—asserted that their departure signalled deep-seated dissatisfaction with the APC’s governance since 2015.
“We have carefully examined the APC’s leadership style over the years and concluded that the party does not prioritise the welfare of Nigerians,” a spokesperson for the defectors stated. “The APC has increased the cost of living, plunged millions into poverty, overseen worsening insecurity, stifled political freedoms, and obstructed pathways to improved livelihoods.”
The defectors further criticised the APC administration over the fuel subsidy removal, sustained foreign borrowing, and punitive tax policies imposed amid harsh economic conditions, arguing these measures reflected a disregard for public interest.
“We were promised economic prosperity, but we have been impoverished. We were promised improved security, yet insecurity has worsened. Farmers can no longer access their lands, and many Nigerians are now displaced,” they added.
The group predicted further defections ahead of the 2027 general elections, asserting that the APC had failed to meet public expectations.
Receiving the new members, Sokoto ADC Chairman Hon. Abdullahi Mai Gwandu hailed their decision as a demonstration of confidence in the party’s vision.
“We warmly welcome our brothers and sisters who have chosen to identify with the ADC. Their decision reflects trust in our commitment to building a Nigeria where citizens’ welfare is paramount,” Mai Gwandu said.
Earlier, ADC Chairman for Tambuwal LGA, Alhaji Bello Dan Marafa, described the mass defection as the beginning of the end for the APC, insisting that Nigerians were increasingly turning to the ADC as the only viable alternative for good governance.