- Shehu Sule Udi resigned from the All Progressives Congress and joined the African Democratic Congress, citing dissatisfaction with the party’s direction
- He stated that his decision was driven by a commitment to democratic principles and pledged to strengthen the ADC’s presence at the grassroots level in Jigawa State
- Political observers noted that his defection was likely to influence local political dynamics in Ringim, with potential ripple effects on future alignments and party strength
The immediate past Chairman of Ringim Local Government Area in Jigawa State, Shehu Sule Udi, has officially defected from the All Progressives Congress (APC) to the African Democratic Congress (ADC), marking another notable political shift within the state’s local government politics.
Udi, who is widely recognised as a close ally of former Jigawa State Governor and ex-Minister of Defence, Muhammad Badaru Abubakar, announced his resignation from the APC, citing what he described as a deviation from the party’s founding principles at both local and national levels.
In a statement made available to journalists, Udi explained that his decision followed deep dissatisfaction with the direction of his former political platform. He stated that his move was guided by personal conviction and a desire to align with a party whose vision, in his view, better reflects democratic ideals and governance principles.
Formally declaring his new affiliation, Udi said: “I, Hon. Shehu Sule Udi, hereby formally and publicly declare that I have officially joined the African Democratic Congress (ADC). I make this declaration with full conviction and commitment to the party’s vision and principles.”
He further pledged to actively contribute to strengthening the ADC, particularly in areas relating to democratic development, political inclusion, and improved governance outcomes. According to him, his participation in the party would be geared towards expanding its influence at the grassroots level.
Udi’s defection has already generated reactions within Ringim Local Government Area, where he is regarded as a significant grassroots mobiliser with a well-established political network. Local political observers have described his move as a potentially important development for the ADC, given his influence among voters and supporters at community level.
Some analysts suggest that his entry into the ADC could trigger further defections, particularly among his supporters and political associates, thereby strengthening the party’s presence beyond Ringim and into surrounding areas.
They argue that his established structure and local political reach may provide the ADC with a stronger foothold in future electoral contests within Jigawa State.
However, members of his former party, the APC, have downplayed the significance of his departure. They maintain that the party remains stable and dominant in the local government area, insisting that individual defections will not substantially affect its political strength or electoral prospects.
The development adds to a growing pattern of political realignments at the grassroots level, as parties continue to position themselves ahead of future elections.
ADC crisis deepens as Bala confirms presence at leadership meeting
Meanwhile, TheRadar earlier reported that the internal crisis within the African Democratic Congress (ADC) has intensified, as factional national chairman Nafiu Bala confirmed that he was present at the meeting where an interim leadership led by former Senate President David Mark was installed in July 2025.
The development marks a significant moment in the party’s ongoing leadership dispute, which has since split the ADC into two factions—one aligned with Mark and the other led by Bala.
The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) further complicated the situation on Wednesday by announcing that it would not recognise either faction, citing a Court of Appeal ruling delivered on 12 March.