Senator Philip Tanimu Aduda, a former Senate Minority Leader and long-time representative for the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), has defected to the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC). The move, announced via an official APC statement on social media, marks a significant political realignment ahead of the 2027 general elections.
According to the party’s statement, Aduda pledged to work towards securing President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s victory in the FCT during the next presidential poll. He was formally inducted into the APC by National Chairman Prof. Nentawe Goshwe Yilwatda, alongside members of the National Working Committee.
This development follows Aduda’s recent resignation from the opposition Peoples Democratic Party (PDP). He cited the PDP’s ongoing internal crises as the primary reason for his departure. Aduda served as the PDP’s Senate Minority Leader during the 9th National Assembly, a position that made him one of the party’s most prominent figures from the North-Central region.
His defection to the APC is a notable gain for the ruling party, particularly in the FCT, a constituency the PDP has historically held. Analysts suggest it could strengthen the APC’s organizational structure in the capital territory as it prepares for the 2027 elections. For Aduda, theswitch represents a new political chapter after years of leadership in the main opposition.
The timing underscores the fluidity of Nigeria’s political landscape, with defections often intensifying in the years following a general election. Aduda’s entry into the APC adds to a series of recent moves by opposition politicians towards the ruling party. His commitment to delivering the FCT for President Tinubu in 2027 sets a clear objective for his new role within the party.
The transition highlights the persistent challenge of internal discord within the PDP, which has struggled with factional disputes since losing the presidency in 2023. Aduda’s exit is a further indication of these struggles influencing senior figures. Moving forward, his integration into the APC’s FCT structure and his ability to mobilize support will be closely watched as a test of his political influence in his former stronghold.
