Sokoto Ex-PDP Governorship Candidate Dumps Party, Joins APC

Former Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) governorship candidate in the 2023 Sokoto State election, Sa’idu Umar Ubandoma, has officially defected to the All Progressives Congress (APC), in a move that has stirred political reactions in the state.

According to reports, Ubandoma, who was a close associate of former Sokoto State Governor, Senator Aminu Waziri Tambuwal, was formally welcomed into the APC by the party’s leader in the state, Senator Aliyu Magatakarda Wamakko, during a reception held at his residence in Asokoro, Abuja.

The announcement was made on Tuesday through a statement released by Wamakko’s Special Assistant on Media and Publicity, Bashar Abubakar.

Ubandoma previously served in prominent positions under the Tambuwal administration, including as Commissioner for Finance and later Secretary to the Sokoto State Government. He later emerged as the PDP’s governorship candidate during the 2023 general election.

Speaking on his decision to leave the PDP, Ubandoma said his move was influenced by Wamakko’s leadership qualities, political experience and commitment to inclusive governance. He also expressed confidence in the administration of Governor Ahmed Aliyu, citing its development initiatives and policies aimed at improving the lives of residents.

The former governorship candidate highlighted government efforts in areas such as infrastructure, healthcare, education, agriculture and rural development as some of the factors that convinced him to align with the APC.

Ubandoma stated that achieving meaningful and sustainable development in Sokoto requires cooperation among political stakeholders who share a common vision for the progress of the state.

While receiving the new APC member, Senator Wamakko described Ubandoma’s defection as a significant gain for the party, noting that the increasing number of political figures joining the APC reflects growing confidence in its leadership.

Wamakko assured Ubandoma and his supporters of full integration into the party, adding that the APC remains committed to welcoming individuals willing to contribute to the development and advancement of Sokoto State and Nigeria.