Major Political Realignment in Adamawa as State Cabinet Defects to APC
A significant political shift occurred in Adamawa State on Friday, as all twenty-two state commissioners and special advisers formally resigned from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to join the governing All Progressives Congress (APC). The move underscores a complete alignment of the state executive council with Governor Ahmadu Fintiri, who earlier in the day completed his own formal registration with the APC.
The defection was announced by Mr. Alloucious Babadoke, Chairman of the Commissioners’ Forum. He stated that the State Executive Council resolved to politically align with the governor, declaring “total loyalty and commitment” to what he termed the “fresh air administration.” Babadoke cited the governor’s leadership, which he said has positioned the state as a “developmental model,” as the reason for their support.
Commissioner for Information, James Iliya, echoed this sentiment, pledging to mobilise supporters across the state for APC membership registration. The Forum of Special Advisers, in a statement by its Chairman, Bala Jada, confirmed its collective resignation from the PDP. Jada explained the decision followed “extensive consultations with stakeholders, including community leaders, youth groups, women’s associations, and professional bodies.” He characterised it as a “forward-looking step after reflection, consultations, and conviction,” clarifying it was not driven by animosity towards the former party.
The defectors thanked the people of Adamawa for their support and pledged widespread grassroots mobilisation for the APC. They argued that the political alignment would strengthen the state’s advocacy and interests at the national level.
This unified shift of the state’s top appointed officials marks a decisive consolidation of Governor Fintiri’s political structure within the APC, coming less than two years before the end of his term. It signals a major realignment in the northeastern state, previously a PDP stronghold, and could influence the political dynamics ahead of future elections in the region. The immediate focus will be on the implementation of this new alignment and its practical impact on state governance and federal relations.
