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Engr. Abdullahi Isah Jankara, a prominent political figure and former governorship aspirant under the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Niger State, has officially defected to the African Democratic Congress (ADC). He announced his intention to contest the 2027 governorship election in Niger State under his new party’s banner, signaling a significant shift in the state’s political landscape well ahead of the next electoral cycle.
The declaration was made over the past weekend during a stakeholders’ meeting held with PDP members at Baban Gwari in Birinin Maza Tashibo ward, located within Lapai Local Government Area of Niger State. This move comes after months of speculation regarding his political future, with his departure from the PDP attributed to what he described as persistent internal crises plaguing the party.
Jankara articulated his belief that the African Democratic Congress represents a viable alternative for Nigeria, offering a fresh direction away from the perceived failures of both major parties. He urged Nigerians, and specifically the people of Niger State, to rally behind the ADC to rescue the state and the nation from what he termed “deceitful governments” that have undermined public trust.
In a scathing critique, Jankara accused the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) of profound misrule, fostering disunity, exacerbating hardship, and demonstrating gross maladministration and insecurity across the country. He contended that the APC has unequivocally betrayed the confidence placed in them by the populace, necessitating a robust opposition capable of offering tangible solutions and genuine leadership.
Elaborating on his disaffection with the PDP, Jankara asserted that he could no longer remain within a party he claimed was surrounded by “cronies.” He alleged that these individuals outwardly identify as PDP members during the day but secretly align with the APC at night, engaging in deliberate political maneuvers designed to further destabilize and destroy the PDP ahead of the crucial 2027 general elections.
Jankara’s political background includes his previous role as a state Controller of the defunct Department of Petroleum Resources (DPR), a position that granted him considerable administrative experience. His 2023 governorship aspiration within the PDP, though unsuccessful, established him as a recognized contender with a grassroots following, making his defection a notable event in Niger State politics.
The PDP chairman of Lapai LGA, Bello Abubakar Ebbo, responded to Jankara’s departure with a pragmatic tone. Ebbo stated that political party affiliation should not be viewed as a religious commitment, implying that individuals are free to leave if dissatisfied. He wished Jankara well in his future political endeavors, indicating a degree of acceptance regarding the fluidity of political allegiances in Nigeria.
Niger State, strategically located in Nigeria’s Middle Belt, holds significant electoral weight due to its large landmass and diverse population. The political dynamics within the state often reflect broader national trends, making such high-profile defections closely watched. The 2027 gubernatorial race is expected to be highly contested, with this early declaration from Jankara setting an anticipatory tone.
Political defections are a common feature of Nigeria’s multi-party democracy, often driven by ideological differences, personal ambitions, or perceived opportunities within other political platforms. While sometimes criticized as opportunistic, these movements can also reshape alliances and provide alternatives to the dominant political structures, keeping the political landscape in a constant state of flux.
Jankara’s move to the ADC aims to position him as a formidable challenger, hoping to capitalize on voter disenchantment with the established parties. His success will depend on his ability to mobilize support, articulate a compelling vision for Niger State, and build a strong campaign infrastructure within his new political home, the African Democratic Congress.
This early declaration underscores the intense jockeying for political advantage as parties and aspirants begin to strategize for the next general elections. The coming months will likely reveal how the PDP and APC in Niger State adapt to this development, as they too will be keen to consolidate their positions and address any internal fragilities exposed by such high-profile departures.
The 2027 gubernatorial contest in Niger State promises to be a keenly observed electoral battle, with Engr. Abdullahi Isah Jankara’s defection marking an early and assertive step towards challenging the incumbent political order. His journey with the ADC will test the party’s capacity to emerge as a significant force in a state traditionally dominated by the larger political parties.
