The 2023 governorship candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Sokoto State, Mallam Sa’idu Umar, has officially defected to the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC).
Umar, who is widely regarded as a key political ally of former Governor Aminu Waziri Tambuwal, made the move during a formal meeting with the APC leader in Sokoto State, Senator Aliyu Magatakarda Wamakko, at his residence in Asokoro, Abuja.
The defection was confirmed in a statement released by Bashar Abubakar, the Special Assistant on Media and Publicity to Senator Wamakko.
Regarding his decision to abandon the opposition, Umar stated that he was drawn to the leadership quality demonstrated by Senator Wamakko and the ongoing performance of Governor Ahmed Aliyu’s administration.
He noted that the state government’s significant investments in key sectors—including infrastructure, education, healthcare, agriculture, and rural development—convinced him that the APC provides the most viable platform for the future development of Sokoto.
Welcoming the former governorship candidate into the party, Senator Wamakko hailed the defection as a major boost for the APC.
He remarked that the shift in allegiance reflects a “growing confidence in the party’s leadership and governance.”
Furthermore, Wamakko assured Umar and his followers that they would receive equal treatment, emphasizing that the APC “remains open to individuals committed to promoting peace, unity and development in Sokoto State.”
Sa’idu Umar brings significant political experience to the ruling party. He previously served as the Commissioner for Finance and later as the Secretary to the Sokoto State Government during the administration of former Governor Tambuwal, eventually emerging as the PDP’s flag bearer in the 2023 gubernatorial race.
