Over 200 NNPP members defect to SDP in Adamawa, declaring support for governorship candidate Christopher Nathaniel ahead of the 2027 election
At least 200 members of the New Nigeria Peoples Party, NNPP, in Adamawa State have defected to the Social Democratic Party, SDP, ahead of the 2027 governorship election.
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The defectors declared their support for the SDP governorship candidate, Christopher Nathaniel, citing his proposed policies and political agenda for the state.
The development was announced during the official unveiling of Dr Fauziyah Ahmed Rufai as Nathaniel’s running mate for the 2027 election in Adamawa.
Speaking on behalf of the former NNPP members, Dr Mustapha Mohammad Abbo said they decided to join the SDP after considering Nathaniel’s plans for the state.
Abbo said the group believed the SDP candidate’s proposed policies and political blueprint aligned with what they considered important for Adamawa.
The defection adds another layer to the political realignment taking place in the state as parties intensify preparations for the 2027 elections.
The NNPP members were among stakeholders who attended the SDP event, where the party formally presented Rufai as Nathaniel’s deputy governorship candidate.
Reports from the event said the NNPP stakeholders also announced their decision to collapse their structures in support of the SDP ticket.
Nathaniel said the choice of Rufai followed consultations with stakeholders and consideration of her experience, capacity and record of public service.
He described her emergence as an important step for the party as it builds its ticket and campaign structure ahead of the governorship contest.
Rufai’s selection also gives the SDP ticket a prominent female presence in the 2027 governorship race.
The petroleum geologist, university lecturer and researcher was presented to party stakeholders during a consultative session attended by party leaders, candidates, supporters and other stakeholders.
Nathaniel said the SDP would focus on unity, cooperation and issue-based campaigning as it continues its political engagement across Adamawa.
He also called on supporters and residents of the state to support the party at the polls, while presenting the SDP ticket as part of its plan for the state.
The latest movement comes as political parties in Adamawa continue to reposition ahead of the 2027 elections, with defections and changes in party alliances adding to the emerging contest.
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For the SDP, the entry of the NNPP group and the unveiling of Rufai provide fresh momentum as the party seeks to expand its structure across the state.
