Ex-Gombe PDP Guber Candidate Defects To ADC

The gubernatorial candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in the 2023 General Elections in Gombe State, Muhammad Jibrin Barde, has formally announced his defection to the African Democratic Congress (ADC). Barde, who was the first runner-up in the 2023 governorship election behind Governor Muhammadu Inuwa Yahaya, told journalists that he joined the ADC since […]

The gubernatorial candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in the 2023 General Elections in Gombe State, Muhammad Jibrin Barde, has formally announced his defection to the African Democratic Congress (ADC).

Barde, who was the first runner-up in the 2023 governorship election behind Governor Muhammadu Inuwa Yahaya, told journalists that he joined the ADC since early 2025, to challenge misgovernance by the All Progressives Congress (APC) led government in the state.

He debunked reports of internal divisions in the state chapter of the party, adding that they are working with opposition members to work together and wrestle power from the ruling APC in 2027.

Barde stressed that there is no known faction within the ADC in the state, saying party members across the wards and local government areas are working in synergy to strengthen the party’s presence and expand its grassroots support.

According to him, the party’s leadership and members in Gombe are collectively committed to the ADC’s core objective of building an alternative political platform driven by internal democracy and inclusive participation.

According to him, the party remains united and fully aligned with its national leadership as it intensifies preparations ahead of its forthcoming congress.

Barde also outlined ADC’s plan to hold state congresses in late January 2026, urging members to participate and validate their membership, and also mobilise new supporters ahead of the congresses.

He stated that the registration exercise has provided an opportunity to consolidate existing structures while onboarding new members without internal friction.

“The ADC’s operational model prioritises ‘one man, one vote’ and rejects imposition, and it has helped to maintain cohesion and discipline among our members.

“The ongoing membership revalidation and mobilization exercise has further reinforced unity within the party, as members across the state are actively engaging at the unit and ward levels to align with the national timetable of activities,” he said.