A significant political shift unfolded in northeastern Nigeria’s Gombe State this week as dozens of supporters from the opposition Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) defected to the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC). The move, seen as a boost for the APC ahead of future elections, was marked by a formal reception ceremony attended by top party officials and community leaders.
The defectors, originating from the polling unit of former Gombe State Governor Ibrahim Hassan Dankwambo, were formally welcomed by Sani Ahmad Haruna, Chairman of Gombe Local Government and head of the state chapter of the Association of Local Governments of Nigeria (ALGON). Notable among the group was D.J. Mai Taya, Senior Special Assistant on the Gombe State Transport Company (GOSTEC), who facilitated their transition. At the event, Haruna praised the decision as “bold” and pledged equal inclusion for the newcomers in party activities, emphasizing the APC’s focus on governance reform and development.
Representing State APC Chairman Nite K. Amangal, Gombe LGA APC leader Abubakar Danladi highlighted the growing unity within the party, vowing support for both existing and new members. The defection drew further endorsement from Abubakar Aminu Musa, Security Adviser to Gombe Governor Muhammadu Inuwa Yahaya, who described it as a catalyst for “strengthening political cohesion and grassroots engagement.”
Several defectors pointed to Governor Yahaya’s leadership and the APC’s track record on infrastructure and social programs as motivating factors for their switch. “We’ve seen tangible progress under this administration, both locally and nationally,” one attendee remarked, reflecting broader sentiments shared at the gathering. The event, which drew councillors, party stakeholders, and crowds of supporters, closed with calls to amplify APC’s influence in the region through collaborative efforts.
Analysts view the defections as part of a strategic realignment in Nigerian politics, where local loyalties and perceptions of governance effectiveness increasingly shape voter behavior. While the PDP has yet to publicly respond, the move underscores the APC’s ongoing efforts to consolidate power in Gombe—a state historically marked by competitive electoral contests.
