Adamawa State Governor Ahmadu Fintiri has officially defected from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to the All Progressives Congress (APC), triggering fresh political realignments ahead of the 2027 elections.

The high-profile defection saw 22 out of 24 commissioners in his cabinet move with him to the APC, consolidating the ruling party’s strength in Adamawa State.

However, two commissioners — including Adamu Atiku, son of former Vice President Atiku Abubakar — declined to join the new political camp.

Adamu Atiku Shuns APC Defection

Adamu Atiku, who currently serves as Commissioner for Works and Energy Development, was notably absent during the governor’s statewide broadcast announcing the defection.

His name, along with that of Livestock Commissioner Maksha Atiku, did not appear on the official list of cabinet members who switched allegiance.

Sources within the state government suggest Adamu’s decision was influenced by loyalty to his father, Atiku Abubakar, a leading opposition figure associated with the African Democratic Congress.

Political observers say his refusal to defect signals internal resistance and preserves Atiku’s political influence in Adamawa.

PDP Condemns Fintiri’s Move

The PDP’s National Working Committee, led by Tanimu Turaki, criticized Fintiri’s defection, describing it as a setback for multi-party democracy in Nigeria.

In a statement issued by National Publicity Secretary Ini Ememobong, the party accused the governor of abandoning a platform that supported his political rise across multiple election cycles.

The party argued that Fintiri’s decision raises broader concerns about political loyalty, party ideology, and the stability of Nigeria’s democratic system.

Political Implications for 2027

Fintiri’s switch to the APC significantly reshapes Adamawa’s political landscape and could weaken Atiku’s local stronghold.

As realignments intensify, analysts predict a fiercely contested battle in the build-up to 2027.