2027: Tambuwal’s ally Ubandoma joins APC

Sa’idu Ubandoma, a close political ally of former Sokoto State Governor, Aminu Tambuwal, has defected to the All Progressives Congress after losing the African Democratic Congress governorship ticket.

Ubandoma, who was the Peoples Democratic Party governorship candidate in Sokoto in 2023, lost the ADC ticket to Manir Dan’Iya, Tambuwal’s former deputy.

He announced his defection at the Asokoro, Abuja residence of Senator Aliyu Wamakko, the APC leader in Sokoto State.

The move is a major political blow to Tambuwal, as Ubandoma was widely regarded as one of his most trusted loyalists.

He served as commissioner for finance and later as Secretary to the State Government during Tambuwal’s administration.

In 2023, Tambuwal backed him as the PDP governorship candidate, a decision that reportedly sidelined other major figures in the party, including Dan’Iya.

Ubandoma, however, lost the governorship election to the APC candidate and incumbent governor, Ahmed Aliyu.

Explaining his latest move, Ubandoma said he was joining the APC because of Wamakko’s leadership and what he described as the people-oriented projects of Governor Aliyu.

His defection adds a new twist to Sokoto politics ahead of 2027, especially as opposition figures continue to reposition themselves after internal battles over tickets.