Former Jigawa Speaker Dumps APC for PDP Ahead of 2027 Elections

The political landscape in Jigawa State witnessed a dramatic shift on Tuesday as a former Speaker of the State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Idris Garba Kareka, officially resigned from the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) and joined the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).

The move, announced before a large crowd in Jahun town, has sparked fresh conversations about the growing wave of defections ahead of the 2027 general elections. Kareka, a serving lawmaker representing Jahun State Constituency, did not merely change parties—he immediately declared his intention to seek another term under his new political platform.

Standing before supporters and political allies at a rally in Jahun Local Government Area, Kareka formally embraced the PDP after years in the APC.

The lawmaker, who previously served two terms as Speaker of the Jigawa State House of Assembly, explained that his decision was driven by what he described as the need to safeguard the interests of his constituents and accelerate development in Jahu

According to him, remaining in the APC was no longer the best option for achieving the aspirations of the people he represents.

His departure delivers another symbolic blow to the APC in Jigawa, a state traditionally regarded as one of the party’s strongholds in northern Nigeria.

Political observers noted that Kareka’s influence extends beyond his constituency due to his experience as Speaker and his long-standing presence in state politics. His defection could therefore have implications for local political calculations as parties begin positioning themselves for the next election cycle.

The development comes at a time when political realignments are becoming increasingly common across the country. With the 2027 elections drawing closer, politicians are reassessing alliances, testing new platforms, and seeking strategic advantages in preparation for what is expected to be a highly competitive contest.

Kareka’s move is part of a broader trend of defections and internal party struggles currently reshaping Nigeria’s political environment.

Across several states, disagreements over party leadership, candidate selection processes, and political interests have triggered shifts in allegiance among elected officials and influential party members.

Such defections often carry significant weight because they can alter political structures at the grassroots level and influence voter perceptions ahead of major elections.

For the PDP, the arrival of a former Speaker and serving legislator represents a potential boost to its efforts to strengthen its presence in Jigawa State. For the APC, however, the loss raises fresh questions about party unity and its ability to retain key political figures as preparations for 2027 intensify.

The coming months are expected to reveal whether Kareka’s decision is an isolated move or the beginning of a wider political realignment within the state.

What began as a routine political gathering in Jahun quickly transformed into one of the most significant political developments in Jigawa State this year.

By abandoning the APC and embracing the PDP, Idris Garba Kareka has placed himself at the centre of the state's evolving political narrative. His decision not only reshapes his personal political future but also adds a new layer of uncertainty to the battle for power ahead of the 2027 elections.

As political parties continue to reorganise and court influential figures, all eyes will remain on Jigawa to see whether this high-profile defection triggers further cracks within existing political structures or strengthens the opposition's chances in the years ahead.