Sokoto State witnessed a major political shake-up as more than 50,000 members of the All Progressives Congress (APC) defected to the African Democratic Congress (ADC) coalition in Gada Local Government Area.

The defection was led by former senator Abubakar Gada, who described the move as a decisive step in the struggle to “liberate the state and the country” from years of economic hardship, insecurity, and poor governance under the APC-led administration.

Addressing a mammoth crowd of supporters, Gada said the mass exodus from the ruling party reflects growing frustration, particularly in northern communities battling widespread banditry, unemployment, and poverty.

“Every citizen has the right to take security for granted. In our case, it is not like that. We have to struggle together to bring security within the reach of all,” he declared, stressing that security and economic revival would be the coalition’s top priorities.

The ex-lawmaker lamented how persistent banditry has crippled agriculture in Sokoto, forcing many farmers into destitution. He further dismissed fears that the ruling APC might rely on state machinery to retain power in 2027, insisting that “God gives power and not man.”

“We have seen governments with all the machinery of state lose elections. Once citizens collectively resolve to change their destiny, no force can stop them,” he said.

On speculations that late President Muhammadu Buhari’s name was being linked to the coalition, Gada dismissed the claims as a hoax.

“Even if he were alive, nobody would rely on him to save the country. He himself could not do anything during his tenure. He caused the tragedy in which we are all living today,” he remarked.

Gada urged Nigerians to take their destiny into their own hands, stressing that the movement’s mission is to drive political change from the grassroots to the presidency by 2027.

“The growing wave of defections to the ADC is proof that Nigerians are ready to chart a new course anchored on peace, security, and prosperity for all. We cannot and will not abandon the struggle for collective salvation. Together, we can restore Nigeria’s fortune and pride, and with determination, it will surely come to pass,” he said.