Former Senator Abubakar Gada Dumps ADC, Returns to PDP in Sokoto

A leading stalwart of the All Democratic Congress (ADC) coalition in Sokoto State, former Senator Abubakar Gada, has formally returned to the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), citing the need to “reclaim and rebuild” the party in the state.

Gada announced his decision at the end of a consultative meeting held in Sokoto, marking a significant political shift ahead of future electoral contests. The former lawmaker represented Sokoto East Senatorial District from 2007 to 2011 on the platform of the PDP before defecting to the ADC coalition in 2025.

Explaining his decision, Gada said he played a prominent role in the formation and expansion of the ADC coalition in Sokoto State, investing substantial political capital, time, and energy to build what he described as a credible alternative political movement. He noted that he deployed modern communication tools and social media to broaden participation and even facilitated the visit of the Northwest coalition representative, Malam Nasiru El-Rufa’i, to engage stakeholders in the state.

However, Gada said developments within the coalition exposed deep-seated challenges that undermined its viability. According to him, weak internal cohesion, lack of strategic clarity, and insufficient commitment at critical leadership levels made it difficult for the coalition to achieve its objectives.

“After extensive consultations with political allies, stakeholders, and grassroots leaders, and following careful reflection, I decided to withdraw my membership from the ADC coalition,” he said.

Gada explained that his return to the PDP was informed by the party’s more structured framework and people-oriented approach, which he believes offers a stronger platform for advancing the collective aspirations of Sokoto State. He added that the move followed statewide town hall meetings, grassroots engagements, and high-level political consultations aimed at restoring unity and public confidence in the PDP.

Reassuring the people of Sokoto, Gada pledged continued commitment to inclusive leadership, grassroots empowerment, constructive political engagement, and good governance. He said he remains resolute in working toward unity, sustainable development, and shared prosperity.

Meanwhile, participants at the meeting, including Alhaji Hamza Gatawa, Hajiya Maryam Gade, and Alhaji Tambari Tambuwal, praised Gada’s courage and political consistency, describing his return to the PDP as a boost to efforts aimed at strengthening democratic governance in Nigeria.