Gombe aspirant Abdulkadir Hamma Saleh switches from PDP to APC ahead of 2027 polls

Defection Announcement Alhaji Abdulkadir Hamma Saleh, who had previously vied for the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) governorship ticket in Gombe State, announced his resignation from the party and his move to the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC). The decision was communicated through a press release distributed to journalists in Gombe on 17 October 2026.

Background of the PDP Ticket Dispute Saleh’s exit comes after a protracted contest for the PDP governorship nomination. He had challenged former Minister of Communications and Digital Economy Professor Isa Ali Ibrahim Pantami for the ticket. Pantami’s initial victory in the PDP primary was later contested in court, leading to a rerun of the primary election. The dispute highlighted internal divisions within the party.

Call to Supporters In his announcement, Saleh urged his supporters across Gombe State to join him in the APC and to back the party’s candidates at all levels of government. The call reflects a strategic shift aimed at aligning with the ruling party’s electoral machinery as the 2027 general elections approach.

Implications for Gombe Politics The defection adds fresh pressure on the PDP, which is already grappling with internal challenges as it prepares for the upcoming polls. Saleh’s move is seen as part of a broader realignment in Gombe, where parties are consolidating positions ahead of the 2027 elections. The shift could influence voter sentiment and alter the balance of power between the opposition and the ruling party in the state.

Looking Ahead With the 2027 elections on the horizon, Saleh’s decision may prompt further realignments among aspirants and party members in Gombe. The APC’s strengthened presence could affect the dynamics of the gubernatorial contest, while the PDP will need to address internal cohesion to remain competitive.