The senator representing Kebbi South, Garba Maidoki, has defected from the All Progressives Congress (APC) to the African Democratic Congress (ADC), citing unresolved internal disputes in the ruling party.
Maidoki announced his decision in a letter addressed to Senate President Godswill Akpabio and read during Tuesday’s plenary.
The lawmaker, who chairs the Senate Committee on Legislative Compliance and serves as Vice Chairman of the Senate Committee on Information and National Orientation, said his decision followed extensive consultations with his constituents.
Explaining his defection, Maidoki pointed to disagreements arising from the APC primaries in Kebbi State.
“There is a lingering internal crisis in the APC, especially arising from the Kebbi primary elections.
“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,” he stated.
Maidoki was among aspirants reportedly screened out of the APC primaries in the state.
Following the announcement, Deputy Senate President Jibrin Barau, who presided over the session, appealed to the senator to reconsider his decision and remain in the APC.
“I wish to intervene and plead with the distinguished senator to rescind his decision.
“There is no internal problem in the APC in Kebbi State.
“This is more of a family dispute and we can reconcile.
“I move that this defection be stepped down for reconciliation,” Barau said.
However, Maidoki declined the appeal, insisting on his decision to leave the ruling party.
The senator had earlier resigned from the APC in May ahead of the party’s senatorial primary election.
He announced his resignation in a letter dated May 14, 2026, addressed to the APC Ward Chairman of Rafin Zuru Ward in Zuru Local Government Area of Kebbi State.
Maidoki’s move adds to the growing number of politicians leaving the APC for the ADC ahead of the 2027 general elections amid concerns over party primaries and internal disputes.
