Mass Defection Rocks Adamawa as 39 Special Advisers, 14 LG Chairmen Dump PDP for APC

YOLA —By Ojoma Yusuf,Yola

A major political realignment has unfolded in Adamawa State following the defection of 39 Special Advisers to the governor and 14 out of the 21 Local Government Chairmen from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to the All Progressives Congress (APC).

The defectors, however, reaffirmed their loyalty to Governor Ahmadu Umaru Fintiri, stating that their decision was taken in the overall interest of Adamawa State.

The announcement was made during a press conference in Yola by Hon. Bala Buba Jada, Chairman of the Forum of Special Advisers to the Governor. Jada explained that the move followed “careful reflection, consultation and conviction,” emphasizing that it was driven by the need to advance the development and stability of the state.

“Our purpose is clear and straightforward — to provide clarity on our political position and reaffirm our commitment to the continued development, stability and strategic advancement of Adamawa State,” Jada said.

He expressed gratitude to Governor Fintiri for the trust placed in them, describing their roles in public service as both an honour and a responsibility.

In a related development, the Chairman of the Association of Local Government Chairmen (ALGON) in Adamawa State, Hon. Sulaiman Gangkuba, announced that 14 local government chairmen had also defected to the APC in solidarity with the governor.

Gangkuba noted that the decision was reached after wide consultations with key stakeholders and dismissed suggestions of coercion.

“This is a collective decision taken after wide consultation with our stakeholders. It is in recognition of the giant strides recorded under the leadership of Governor Fintiri,” he said.

The local government areas whose chairmen joined the defection include Toungo, Ganye, Mayo Belwa, Numan, Shelleng, Lamurde, Guyuk, Yola South, Fufore, Hong, Maiha, Mubi South and Madagali.

The chairmen pledged continued collaboration with the state government under the APC platform, stressing their commitment to grassroots development.

Political observers say the wave of defections represents a significant shift in Adamawa’s political landscape. The movement of senior advisers and a majority of local government chairmen is expected to alter party structures and could shape the dynamics of future electoral contests in the state.