Sokoto’s political landscape has shifted as the African Democratic Congress (ADC) announced a new slate of consensus candidates for the upcoming elections. Former Speaker of the House of Representatives Faruk Yabo has been endorsed as the ADC’s senatorial candidate for Sokoto South, replacing Aminu Tambuwal, who withdrew from the race. In the state’s governorship contest, the ADC has also named Manir Muhammad Dan’iya – who served as Deputy Governor under Tambuwal – as its consensus candidate.
Tambuwal, a former Speaker and current Representative for Sokoto South, had earlier entered the presidential contest on the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) platform before stepping down in favor of former Vice President Atiku Abubakar. His decision to exit the senatorial contest clears the way for Yabo’s emergence as the ADC’s unified choice.
The ADC’s move to field Yabo and Dan’iya reflects a strategy of consolidating support around established figures with proven track records in national and state politics. Yabo, who chaired several key House committees and served as Speaker from 2015 to 2019, brings extensive legislative experience. Dan’iya, who held the deputy governorship from 2015 to 2023, is familiar with Sokoto’s executive affairs and is positioned to leverage that background in the forthcoming campaign.
Analysts note that the ADC’s consensus nominations could reshape voter dynamics in Sokoto, traditionally a stronghold for the PDP and the All Progressives Congress (APC). By presenting unified tickets, the party hopes to attract voters seeking alternatives to the two dominant parties.
The developments come as the nation prepares for the next general elections, with parties finalising candidates across all tiers of government. The ADC’s selections are expected to be formalised at a national convention later this year, after which campaign activities will intensify.
Stakeholders will be watching how the new candidates mobilise support, particularly in rural districts where local affiliations remain decisive. The outcome in Sokoto could serve as an early indicator of the ADC’s broader national prospects and its capacity to challenge the PDP and APC duopoly.
As the election calendar advances, the ADC’s consensus strategy places Yabo and Dan’iya at the forefront of Sokoto’s political contest, setting the stage for a competitive race that will test the party’s appeal and organisational strength.
