ADC crisis: Kwankwaso plans defection to NDC with supporters

Former Kano State governor, Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, is set to defect from the African Democratic Congress (ADC) to the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC), alongside thousands of his loyalists under the Kwankwasiyya Movement.

Sources within the movement said the planned defection could take place as early as next week, following a strategic meeting of key stakeholders held at Kwankwaso’s residence in Kano, where the decision was reportedly endorsed.

It was gathered that discussions with the NDC are at an advanced stage, with only final details being resolved. Sources also indicated that Peter Obi may join the party around the same time.

Leaders within the Kwankwasiyya Movement have attributed the planned exit to lingering internal crises within the ADC, warning that the party’s stability and future remain uncertain.

A prominent ally of Kwankwaso, Dr. Yusuf Kofarmata, said the party is grappling with multiple legal and structural challenges, including disputes over leadership and court rulings affecting its congresses and national convention.

“ADC is facing serious internal and external challenges. It will take a miracle for the party to survive the current situation,” he said, adding that ongoing litigations could threaten its participation in the 2027 general elections.

Another leader of the movement, Shehu Wada Sagagi, said the decision to move to the NDC was taken after careful assessment of the risks confronting the ADC.

“Our leader and the movement believe moving to the NDC is the best option, considering the legal threats facing the ADC. We must act to protect our political future,” he said.

The development has already begun to trigger defections at the grassroots level. A key figure in Dala Local Government Area, Hon. Kabiru Adamu Abdullahi, announced his resignation from the ADC in a letter dated May 1, 2026.

Abdullahi said his decision followed directives from the leadership of the Kwankwasiyya Movement, expressing appreciation to the party while confirming his immediate exit.

The anticipated defection marks a significant shift in Kano’s political landscape as realignments continue ahead of the 2027 general elections.