Tambuwal Ally Ubandoma Joins APC after the former Sokoto PDP governorship candidate defects ahead of the 2027 election cycle
Former Sokoto State governorship candidate Sa’idu Ubandoma, a close political ally of former Governor Aminu Waziri Tambuwal, has joined the All Progressives Congress (APC) ahead of the 2027 general election, in a move expected to reshape political alignments in the state.
Also read: Makinde Ally Arapaja Dumps PDP, Moves Closer to APC Defection
Ubandoma announced his defection on Tuesday, 7 July 2026, at the Abuja residence of Senator Aliyu Wamakko, the APC leader in Sokoto State, after losing the African Democratic Congress (ADC) governorship ticket to Manir Dan’Iya, who previously served as Tambuwal’s deputy governor.
The move represents a significant political setback for Tambuwal, as Ubandoma was regarded as one of his closest allies and played key roles during his administration.
Ubandoma served as Sokoto State Commissioner for Finance and later became Secretary to the State Government under Tambuwal, strengthening his position within the former governor’s political structure.
In 2023, Tambuwal backed Ubandoma as the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) governorship candidate in Sokoto, a decision that reportedly affected the ambitions of other leading party figures, including Dan’Iya.
However, Ubandoma lost the 2023 governorship election to the APC candidate and incumbent governor, Ahmed Aliyu.
Explaining his decision to join the APC, Ubandoma said he was motivated by Senator Wamakko’s leadership and the development initiatives of Governor Aliyu’s administration.
His defection follows a period of political repositioning among key figures ahead of the 2027 elections, as politicians continue to reassess alliances following internal party disputes and contests over electoral tickets.
Also read: Makinde Ally Arapaja Dumps PDP, Moves Closer to APC Defection
The development adds fresh uncertainty to the political landscape in Sokoto, where major parties are expected to intensify efforts to build stronger structures ahead of the next election cycle.
