Former governor of Sokoto State and the senator representing Sokoto South Senatorial District, Aminu Waziri Tambuwal, has formally resigned from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), bringing an end to his long-standing association with the party.
Tambuwal announced his decision through a statement shared on his verified account on the social media platform X, where he revealed that he had officially communicated his resignation to his ward chairman in writing.
The former governor explained that the decision followed deep reflection and consultations with his political associates and supporters.
“Today, after deep reflection and consultations, I have formally resigned my membership of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), and I have communicated my resignation to my ward chairman in writing,” he wrote.
The development marks a significant shift in the political career of Tambuwal, who has been one of the most prominent figures within the PDP and played major roles in the party’s activities at both national and state levels.
In his statement, Tambuwal acknowledged the important role the PDP had played in shaping his political career over the years. He expressed appreciation for the opportunities the party provided for him to serve the country in various capacities.
According to him, the PDP was instrumental in enabling him to hold several high-profile political offices, including his tenure as Speaker of the House of Representatives and his service as governor of Sokoto State.
Tambuwal served as Speaker of the House of Representatives of Nigeria before later becoming governor of Sokoto State, a position he held for two consecutive terms.
“I remain grateful for the opportunities the party gave me to serve our nation,” he said.
He particularly highlighted his time as Speaker and as governor during his second term in office, describing those positions as major milestones in his public service career.
Tambuwal’s acknowledgement of the party’s contributions underscored the long-standing relationship he maintained with the PDP prior to his decision to leave.
Despite expressing appreciation for the PDP, the former governor said persistent internal problems within the party played a significant role in his decision to resign.
According to him, the PDP has been facing deepening internal crises marked by leadership disputes, factional disagreements, and widening divisions among party members.
Tambuwal explained that these issues have created an environment that makes it increasingly difficult for members to function effectively within the party.
He noted that the prolonged disagreements and conflicts within the party have weakened its unity and reduced the sense of direction that once defined its operations.
“However, the persistent internal crisis, leadership disagreements, and growing divisions within the PDP have made it increasingly difficult to continue my membership of the party,” he stated.
The senator added that the situation within the PDP has deteriorated to the point where the party’s cohesion and effectiveness have been seriously affected.
“These developments have unfortunately weakened the unity and direction that once defined the party,” he said.
Tambuwal explained that the ongoing instability within the PDP ultimately compelled him to reconsider his political future and take a new direction.
Following his resignation from the PDP, Tambuwal announced that he has officially joined the African Democratic Congress (ADC).
He said the move was made alongside several of his political associates and supporters who also decided to follow him to the new party.
“Consequently, I have today officially joined the African Democratic Congress (ADC) with my associates and supporters,” he declared.
The decision represents a major political realignment for Tambuwal and his supporters, particularly in Sokoto State and the wider North-West region where he remains an influential political figure.
Political observers say the move could potentially reshape political dynamics within Sokoto State and influence future electoral contests in the region.
Tambuwal explained that his decision to join the ADC was guided by his conviction that Nigeria requires a stronger and more credible political platform capable of addressing the country’s challenges.
According to him, the platform must be built on principles such as integrity, accountability, inclusiveness, and a firm commitment to national development.
“I am convinced that this decision is guided by my belief that Nigeria needs a stronger political platform built on integrity, accountability, inclusiveness, and a clear commitment to national development,” he said.
The senator emphasised that political parties should serve as vehicles for promoting democratic ideals and advancing policies that improve the lives of citizens.
He expressed hope that his new political platform would provide the opportunity to contribute meaningfully to national progress.
Tambuwal also reaffirmed his commitment to public service and to the broader ideals of democracy and national unity.
He assured Nigerians that his decision to leave the PDP and join another political party does not diminish his dedication to serving the country.
“I remain fully committed to the service of our country and to the ideals of democracy, justice, and national unity,” he said.
The senator stressed that his political actions will continue to be guided by the goal of strengthening democratic governance and promoting national development.
He also called on his supporters to remain steadfast and continue to work for the progress of the country.
Tambuwal’s defection is expected to generate significant reactions across Nigeria’s political landscape.
As a prominent political figure with a strong support base in Sokoto State and beyond, his movement from the PDP to the ADC may have implications for future political alignments.
Analysts note that defections by high-profile politicians often trigger shifts within party structures and could influence alliances ahead of future elections.
Tambuwal’s exit from the PDP also adds to the list of political realignments taking place within Nigeria’s political system, where internal party disputes and strategic calculations frequently lead politicians to change platforms.
While it remains to be seen how the development will affect political dynamics in Sokoto State and at the national level, Tambuwal’s move underscores the evolving nature of party politics in Nigeria.
For now, the former governor says his focus remains on contributing to the strengthening of democratic institutions and promoting policies that support national development under his new political platform.
