Senator Garba Musa Maidoki has abandoned the APC for the African Democratic Congress. He represents Kebbi South in the Senate.
Maidoki chairs the Senate Committee on Legislative Compliance. He also serves as Vice-Chairman of the Senate Committee on Information and National Orientation.
He cited bitter internal battles within the APC as his reason for switching parties. These disputes stemmed from Kebbi's recently held primary elections.
During Tuesday's Senate plenary, Maidoki submitted a letter explaining his departure. He told lawmakers he consulted widely with constituents before making the move.
"There is a lingering internal crisis in the APC, especially arising from the Kebbi primary elections," he wrote in the letter to the Senate President. "After due consultation with my constituents, I have decided to defect to the ADC, which I believe aligns more with the interests of my district."
Reports indicate Maidoki was screened out of the 2027 election primaries. His exclusion appears to have accelerated his political shift.
Deputy Senate President Jibrin Barau tried to stop the defection during plenary. He urged Maidoki to reconsider and allow time for reconciliation.
"There is no internal problem in the APC in Kebbi State," Barau argued from the chair. "This is more of a family dispute and we can reconcile.
I move that this defection be stepped down for reconciliation."
Maidoki rejected the appeal outright. He'd already made his final decision, he insisted.
His departure marks another blow to the ruling party's strength. Several lawmakers have recently jumped to the ADC over similar grievances.
Frustrated politicians cite internal disputes and flawed primary processes as reasons for leaving. Many view the ADC as a viable alternative ahead of 2027.
Kebbi South's political landscape will shift notably following this exit. The region's balance of power stands to be significantly reshaped by Maidoki's move.
