Senator Garba Maidoki of Kebbi South has formally exited the All Progressives Congress (APC) for the African Democratic Congress (ADC), citing internal disputes and dissatisfaction with the conduct of party primaries in Kebbi State.
His resignation letter was presented on Tuesday during plenary in the Senate by Deputy Senate President Barau Jibrin, who presided over the sitting.
In the letter addressed to Senate leadership and colleagues, Maidoki said his decision followed developments within the APC that he found difficult to reconcile with.
“I am writing to inform Your Excellency, the President of the Senate, and my distinguished colleagues of my defection from the All Progressives Congress, APC, to the African Democratic Congress, ADC,” the letter stated.
He pointed to prolonged internal disagreements within the party, adding that they had affected his political engagement and outlook.
“My decision is based on the lingering internal crisis of the APC that has made my political inspiration a source of concern,” he said.
Maidoki also argued that the ADC provides a more suitable platform for his political objectives and for representing his constituency.
“I believe that the ideas of the ADC are better for the benefit of my senatorial district and Nigeria at large,” he added.
He further criticised the APC over its handling of its recent primaries in Kebbi State, saying the process did not reflect the party’s stated principles.
“The All Progressives Congress, APC, has not exhibited its slogan of justice, peace, and unity, especially in Kebbi State during the just concluded primary elections,” he said.
In response, Deputy Senate President Barau Jibrin challenged the claim that the APC was facing internal instability, insisting the situation had been mischaracterised.
“But I beg to disagree with you here. There is no internal crisis in the APC,” Jibrin said during plenary.
He added that he was open to engaging stakeholders in Kebbi State to resolve any disagreements and encouraged reconciliation efforts within the party.
“I am willing to intervene to reconcile you and others. There is no internal problem in the APC in Kebbi State,” he said.
Maidoki had earlier left the APC ahead of its senatorial primary, citing similar concerns in a resignation letter dated May 14 addressed to his ward leadership in Rafin Zuru, Zuru Local Government Area.
He currently serves as Chairman of the Senate Committee on Legislative Compliance and Vice Chairman of the Committee on Information and National Orientation.
