Former Speaker of the House of Representatives and ex-Governor of Sokoto State, Aminu Tambuwal, has formally resigned his membership of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and joined the African Democratic Congress (ADC).

The ex-governor cited the PDP’s persistent internal crisis, leadership disagreements, and deepening divisions as the driving forces behind his decision.

Tambuwal announced his defection in a statement posted on X in the early hours of Thursday, confirming that he had communicated his resignation in writing to his ward chairman before formally enlisting in the ADC alongside his associates and supporters.

“Today, after deep reflection and consultations, I have formally resigned my membership of the Peoples Democratic Party, and I have communicated my resignation to my ward chairman in writing,” he stated.

While acknowledging the PDP’s significance in shaping his political career — which includes stints as Speaker of the House of Representatives and a second term as Sokoto State Governor — Tambuwal said the party’s internal deterioration had made continued membership untenable.

“The persistent internal crisis, leadership disagreements, and growing divisions within the PDP have made it increasingly difficult to continue my membership of the party. These developments have unfortunately weakened the unity and direction that once defined the party and have necessitated this decision,” he said.

Declaring his reasons for choosing the ADC as his new political home, Tambuwal said he was convinced the platform offered Nigeria a stronger vehicle for democratic progress.

“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 stated, reaffirming his dedication to democracy, justice, and national unity.

Tambuwal’s defection follows a string of prominent defections to the party, including former presidential candidate Peter Obi, positioning the ADC as an increasingly credible opposition platform in the build-up to the next electoral cycle. (Vanguard, but headline rejigged)