Former governorship candidate Jibrin Barde of Nigeria’s Gombe State has left the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and joined the African Democratic Congress (ADC). Barde, who represented the PDP in the 2023 governorship election, announced his defection on Tuesday, saying he wants to rescue the state from what he called rule by business interests. He explained that he exited the PDP in early 2025 and has since been involved with a movement called “Salon Tafiya,” which brings together leaders from across the country—including former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, former governors, and ministers—to tackle insecurity, economic hardship, and infrastructure deficits.
Barde said his priority is to provide purposeful leadership and improve Gombe’s infrastructure, education, and security. He criticized the current situation, pointing to a lack of infrastructure and rising insecurity, and stressed that governance should serve the people rather than individual interests. He urged residents to join the ADC, describing it as heralding a new era for the state, and warned against selling votes, urging citizens to prioritize the state’s future over short‑term gains.
The defection is viewed as a significant development in Gombe’s political landscape ahead of the 2027 general election. The ADC has been gaining momentum as many Nigerians seek alternative platforms to address the country’s challenges, and Barde’s move is expected to boost the party’s prospects in a state traditionally dominated by the PDP. As the 2027 elections approach, political activity is likely to intensify, with parties and candidates jostling for position; Barde’s switch and his call for residents to join the ADC could have notable implications for Gombe’s politics in the coming months.
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