YOLA: Governor of Adamawa State, Ahmadu Umaru Fintiri, has officially defected from the opposition Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), in a major political development that could reshape party alignments ahead of the 2027 general elections.
The governor announced his defection on Friday during a statewide broadcast, stating that the decision was taken in the overall developmental interest of Adamawa State.
Fintiri disclosed that he moved to the APC alongside members of his cabinet as well as key officials of the PDP structure in the state, signalling a sweeping political realignment within Adamawa.
According to him, the decision followed extensive consultations with political stakeholders and was driven by the need to attract greater federal collaboration and accelerate development projects in the state.
This decision is taken purely in the interest of development and the future of Adamawa people,” the governor said during the broadcast.
Images released shortly after the announcement showed the governor displaying his APC membership card, reportedly bearing registration number 001, symbolising his formal entry into the ruling party.
Fintiri’s defection represents one of the most significant political crossovers in northern Nigeria in recent times, particularly given Adamawa’s status as a traditionally competitive PDP stronghold.
Political observers say the move could strengthen the APC’s foothold in the North-East while weakening opposition calculations ahead of forthcoming electoral contests.
The development also comes amid growing political repositioning nationwide, with several politicians reassessing alliances following recent national policy debates and electoral reforms.
The exit of a sitting governor and the reported collapse of the PDP structure in Adamawa is expected to trigger internal consultations within the opposition party at both state and national levels.
Analysts note that such high-profile defections often influence legislative alignments, grassroots mobilization and future governorship dynamics.
Party officials and presidency sources are expected to provide further clarification on the circumstances surrounding the defection, including formal reception arrangements within the APC and potential political implications at the national level.
More details are expected as the situation develops.
