More than 50,000 members of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Sokoto State have defected to the African Democratic Congress (ADC) coalition in what is being described as a major political shift ahead of the 2027 elections.

The mass defection, which took place in Gada Local Government Area, was led by former senator Abubakar Gada, who described the move as a turning point in the struggle to “liberate the state and the country” from years of hardship.

Addressing thousands of supporters, Gada said the decision reflects growing frustration with the APC-led government, particularly in northern communities grappling with insecurity, poverty, and unemployment.

“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 said.

The former senator emphasized that security and economic revival would top the coalition’s agenda, lamenting that persistent banditry had crippled agriculture in Sokoto and forced many farmers into poverty.

Responding to concerns that the ruling party might deploy state machinery to retain power in 2027, Gada insisted:

“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 dismissed speculations linking the movement to late former President Muhammadu Buhari, calling such claims “a hoax.”

“Even if he is alive, nobody will ever rely on him to save the country, as he himself could not do anything during his tenure. He caused the tragedy in which we are all living today,” Gada said.

He urged Nigerians to take their destiny into their own hands, stressing that the ADC movement is focused on building 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 declared.