By Musa Ubandawaki, Sokoto
Hundreds of supporters of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Samo Village, Tambuwal Local Government Area of Sokoto State, on Wednesday defected to the African Democratic Congress (ADC), citing worsening economic hardship, insecurity and declining public confidence in the ruling party.
The mass defection took place at the ADC State Secretariat in Sokoto, where party officials, supporters, women groups and youth leaders gathered to receive the new members.
The defectors, drawn mainly from Samo Village in the Faga/Alasan political ward, said their decision was informed by the growing socio-economic challenges facing Nigerians.
Speaking on behalf of the group, the former APC supporters said the rising cost of living, increasing poverty and persistent insecurity had compelled them to seek an alternative political platform.
They argued that despite promises of economic prosperity and improved security, many Nigerians continued to struggle to meet their basic needs, while businesses and farming activities had suffered significant setbacks.
One of the defectors alleged that many families could no longer afford basic necessities, claiming that government policies had worsened the hardship faced by ordinary citizens.
According to him, public expectations had largely remained unmet, resulting in widespread frustration, particularly among rural communities grappling with poverty and unemployment.
The defectors also cited insecurity as a major reason for leaving the APC, alleging that recurring attacks by criminal elements had disrupted economic and social activities in several parts of the country.
They expressed concern over the impact of insecurity on agriculture, noting that many farmers had abandoned their farmlands or scaled down cultivation for fear of attacks and kidnappings.
The group said it believed the ADC offered a credible alternative capable of addressing Nigeria’s security and economic challenges through inclusive governance and people-oriented policies.
Welcoming the new members, the ADC Chairman in Tambuwal Local Government Area, Alhaji Bello Dan Marafa, described the mass defection as a reflection of growing public dissatisfaction with the APC.
“This development reflects the desire of many Nigerians for a new political direction. We are delighted to receive these supporters into our fold and assure them of equal opportunities within the party,” Dan Marafa said.
He added that the ADC remained committed to promoting justice, accountability and people-centred leadership, stressing that the party’s doors remained open to all Nigerians seeking positive change.
Also speaking, the Sokoto State Chairman of the ADC, Hon. Abdullahi Mai Gwandu, described the defections as a major boost to the party’s grassroots expansion efforts.
“We warmly welcome our brothers and sisters who have chosen to identify with the ADC. Their decision demonstrates confidence in our vision of building a better Nigeria where citizens’ welfare remains a top priority,” Mai Gwandu said.
He assured the defectors of full participation in the party’s activities and urged them to contribute actively to strengthening the ADC ahead of future elections.
Mai Gwandu expressed optimism that the latest defections would further consolidate the party’s grassroots presence in Sokoto State and deepen political competition as parties prepare for future electoral contests.
