Former Sokoto State Governor and Senator representing Sokoto South Senatorial District, Aminu Tambuwal, has formally resigned his membership of the Peoples Democratic Party and joined the African Democratic Congress, marking a significant shift in his political alignment ahead of evolving political dynamics in Nigeria.
In a letter dated March 11, 2026, addressed to his ward chairman in Tambuwal/Shinfiri Ward of Tambuwal Local Government Area of Sokoto State, Tambuwal communicated his decision to leave the PDP with immediate effect.
The former Speaker of the House of Representatives explained that his decision followed deep reflection and extensive consultations with political associates and supporters.
According to him, persistent internal crises, leadership disagreements, and growing divisions within the party had made it increasingly difficult for him to continue his membership.
Tambuwal noted that the ongoing conflicts within the PDP had weakened the unity and direction that once defined the party, making it increasingly challenging for members to pursue collective political goals under its platform.
Despite his departure, he expressed gratitude to the PDP for the opportunity it provided him to serve Nigeria in different capacities within both the legislative and executive arms of government.
Following his resignation, Tambuwal officially joined the African Democratic Congress alongside his associates and political supporters.
He stated that the decision was guided by his conviction that Nigeria requires a stronger political platform built on integrity, accountability, inclusiveness, and a clear commitment to national development.
Tambuwal also reaffirmed his commitment to national service and to the principles of democracy, justice, and unity.
Tambuwal’s political career has spanned several decades and includes significant roles at both the national and state levels.
He first rose to national prominence as a member of the House of Representatives, representing the Kebbe/Tambuwal Federal Constituency of Sokoto State for three consecutive terms.
During his time in the lower legislative chamber, he emerged as Speaker of the House of Representatives, a position he held from 2011 to 2015.
Tambuwal initially served in the House of Representatives under the platform of the Peoples Democratic Party but defected to the All Progressives Congress in October 2014 while still serving as Speaker.
At the time, he explained that the decision was influenced by political considerations and what he described as the future interests of Sokoto State.
In 2015, he was elected Governor of Sokoto State after contesting the election on the platform of the All Progressives Congress.
He governed the state for two terms, serving from 2015 until 2023.
During his tenure as governor, Tambuwal later defected back to the Peoples Democratic Party in August 2018 following consultations with political stakeholders and supporters in the state.
Ahead of the 2023 general elections, Tambuwal sought the presidential ticket of the PDP after declaring his intention to contest the presidency in January 2022 and campaigning among party delegates ahead of the party’s primary election.
However, during the presidential primary held in May 2022, he withdrew from the race and urged his supporters to back former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, who eventually emerged as the party’s presidential candidate.
After completing his tenure as governor in 2023, Tambuwal returned to the National Assembly and won election as the Senator representing Sokoto South Senatorial District under the platform of the Peoples Democratic Party.
