Madaki’s Defection: A Blow to PDP in Adamawa State

By Yagana Ali Yola.

The defection of Chief Joel H. Madaki, a former Chairman and founding father of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Adamawa State, has sent shockwaves through the state’s political landscape. 

The All Progressives Congress (APC) stakeholders have hailed Madaki’s decision as a significant blow to the PDP, claiming it marks the “final nail in the coffin” of the party in the state.

The grand reception organized by the APC in honour of Madaki drew thousands of supporters from across the 21 local governments of the state, signalling a turning point in Adamawa politics. 

APC heavyweights, including the Deputy National Chairman (North), Ali Dalori, and North-East National Vice Chairman, Comrade Mustapha Salihu, attended the event, underscoring the significance of Madaki’s defection.

Chief Madaki cited the collapse of internal democracy in the PDP as the reason for his defection, lamenting that the party had derailed from the ideals and manifesto of its founders. 

He stated that self-interest, in-fighting, and lack of vision had plunged the party into a “sinking mode”, prompting him to seek greener pastures in the APC.

Madaki praised President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration for its infrastructural strides in Adamawa State, citing the establishment of the Federal University of Agriculture, Mubi, and the construction of the Jabbilamba-Belel Road, among others.

He also lauded the appointment of Mallam Nuhu Ribadu as National Security Adviser, saying it had placed Adamawa “at the pinnacle of national politics”.

However, the Adamawa State PDP Chairman, Hamza Madagali, dismissed Madaki’s defection as inconsequential, describing him as “a lone ranger”. 

Madagali maintained that the PDP remains strong and united in Adamawa State, assuring supporters that the party would “reclaim its pride” come 2027.

The APC is confident of emerging victorious in the 2027 elections, with stakeholders claiming that Madaki’s defection has robbed the PDP of its moral and historical foundation in the state. 

As the political landscape in Adamawa State continues to evolve, one thing is certain – the PDP is facing a significant challenge in its bid to regain lost ground.