2027: Senator Wadada dumps SDP for APC

Senator Aliyu Wadada, representing Nasarawa West Senatorial District, has declared his allegiance to the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), despite not having completed the formal defection process from the Social Democratic Party (SDP).

Speaking after a closed-door meeting with President Bola Tinubu at the State House on Tuesday, Wadada stated that no opposition party would have the political space to challenge the presidency in 2027, confidently asserting that no candidate can defeat President Tinubu.

Describing the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) as “one of the ingredients” that helped form the APC, Wadada expressed skepticism about the African Democratic Congress (ADC), saying he had yet to see any candidate from the coalition who could outperform President Tinubu.

Wadada thanked President Tinubu for the national felicitation he received during his recent turbaning as the Maga Jindengi of Lafia.

Reflecting on his political career, Wadada revealed his dynamic party affiliations, including prior roles as APC member before its official formation, and as national financial secretary of the PDP. He explained his earlier move from APC to SDP was circumstantial and did not stem from grievances, noting pride in his time with SDP.

However, he hinted at a possible return to APC, citing recent developments that may no longer warrant his stay in SDP. “I could even say that I am APC, though I have not officially moved,” Wadada stated, emphasizing the need for political flexibility.

Regarding the ADC, Wadada expressed respect for its members but challenged their ability to provide better governance, urging them to present concrete policies on subsidies, foreign exchange management, and infrastructure development.

He defended the ongoing tax reform bill, highlighting its exemption for Nigerians earning below 800,000 Naira annually and its role in increasing state revenues amid subsidy removals.

Affirming his support for President Tinubu, Wadada credited the administration’s transformational agenda for significant infrastructural projects such as the Sokoto-Badagry and Abuja-Kano roads, and the development of the Federal Capital Territory.

The Senator concluded that the political space between now and 2031 remains firmly occupied by President Tinubu, marking him as the dominant figure in Nigeria’s political landscape.