As envisaged, the 2023 governorship candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Sokoto state, Malam Sa’idu Umar Ubandoma has officially defected to the All Progressive Congress (APC).
The historic defection which is coming ahead of 2027 general election took place in Asokoro Abuja, at the personal residence of Senator Aliyu Magatakarda Wamakko, leader of the All Progressive Congress (APC) in Sokoto and Senator representing Sokoto North Senatorial District.
The defected Ubandoma, once known to be a stunch political associate of former governor, now Senator Aminu Waziri Tambuwal was before his venture into politics, a cherished banker, turned seasoned public servant who served as Commissioner for Finance and later as Secretary to the Sokoto State Government under the administration of former Governor Aminu Waziri Tambuwal.
He was also fielded by the PDP as its governorship candidate in the 2023 general election where he was defeated by the incumbent governor Ahmed Aliyu of the APC.
A statement by Bashar Abubakar, the Special Adviser, Media and Publicity to Senator Wamakko quoted Ubandoma as saying his decision to join the APC was because of the unimaginable quality of leadership and political maturity demonstrated by Senator Aliyu Magatakarda Wamakko, as well as the remarkable performance of Governor Ahmed Aliyu in delivering people-oriented projects across Sokoto State.
Ubandoma maintained that the Ahmed Aliyu led administration’s achievements in infrastructural development, education, healthcare, agriculture, rural development, and other critical sectors convinced him that the APC remains the most credible platform for the continued growth and development of Sokoto State.
In his usual cherished receptive characteristic, Senator Wamakko, while welcoming Ubandoma described the defection as a significant boost to the APC and a testament to the confidence many political leaders continue to repose in the party’s leadership and development agenda.
Senator Wamakko therefore assured Ubandoma and his supporters of a warm reception, and mutual respect, into the affairs of the party, stressing that the APC remains open to all well-meaning citizens committed to the unity, peace, and development of Sokoto State.
It will be recalled that political pundits in Sokoto had earlier predicted the possible defection of Malam Ubamdoma shortly after Manir Dan’Iya emerged the governorship candidate of the ADC ahead 2027 general elections.
