Shockwaves in Kaduna Politics as Former PDP Deputy Governorship Candidate John Ayuba Defects to ADC

In a political twist that has left both allies and opponents scrambling for explanations, Dr. John Ayuba, former Deputy Governorship candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Kaduna State, has officially parted ways with the party, joining the African Democratic Congress (ADC) in what many are calling one of the most strategic defections in the build-up to the 2027 general elections.

Dr. Ayuba, a seasoned politician and respected grassroots mobilizer, made the unexpected announcement during a well-attended press briefing in Kaduna on Sunday afternoon. Dressed in a modest cream-coloured agbada and flanked by key supporters and ADC leaders, Ayuba appeared calm but firm as he confirmed his departure from the PDP—a party he had been loyal to for nearly two decades. “Today marks the beginning of a new political journey for me,” he said, his voice echoing in the packed hall. “My decision to leave the PDP is not out of bitterness, but out of conviction. I believe the time has come for me to align with a political platform that reflects the aspirations of the common man and offers a credible alternative for our state and our nation.”

The defection comes amid growing tensions and discontent within the Kaduna chapter of the PDP. Insiders have hinted at mounting internal divisions, alleged marginalization of certain zones, and unresolved grievances from the 2023 elections that saw the PDP lose grip in key battleground areas of the state. Ayuba’s move is seen as a loud signal of frustration with the party’s leadership structure and strategy going forward.

While Ayuba did not openly criticize the PDP during his announcement, his subtle references to “lack of inclusiveness,” “rigid party structures,” and “increasing disconnect with the people” did little to hide his dissatisfaction. He praised the ADC as a party “rooted in ideology, not just ambition,” and vowed to bring his political experience, grassroots support, and reform-driven vision to the new platform.

Political analysts in Kaduna and beyond have reacted to the news with a mixture of surprise and intrigue. Dr. Mustapha Ismail, a political science lecturer at Ahmadu Bello University, described the defection as “a significant loss to the PDP and a big gain for ADC,” adding that “John Ayuba is not just any politician. He’s a man of influence, particularly in Southern Kaduna, and he commands deep respect across tribal and religious lines. This move will rattle both the PDP and the ruling APC.”

Indeed, the African Democratic Congress, a party previously considered fringe in Kaduna politics, seems to be undergoing a quiet but deliberate transformation. Ayuba’s defection adds to a growing list of influential figures who have recently joined the ADC, fueling speculation about a potential coalition of reform-minded politicians seeking to challenge the status quo in the 2027 elections.

As supporters of Ayuba danced and chanted outside the venue, posters bearing slogans like “New Kaduna, New Direction” and “Ayuba for the People” began circulating on social media, hinting at the former deputy governorship candidate’s next political ambition. Though he did not officially declare any intention to run for office in 2027, the energy and symbolism around the event made it clear that Ayuba’s political journey is far from over.

In response to the defection, the PDP Kaduna State chapter released a short statement expressing “regret” over Dr. Ayuba’s departure, but stopped short of addressing the concerns raised in his speech. “Dr. John Ayuba remains a respected member of the PDP family, and while we wish him well, we remain focused on strengthening the party and preparing for future elections,” the statement read. However, sources within the party confided that Ayuba’s exit has already sparked emergency meetings and finger-pointing among the state leadership.

Meanwhile, the ADC wasted no time in capitalizing on the momentum. National Chairman of the party, Ralph Okey Nwosu, issued a statement welcoming Dr. Ayuba, describing him as “a man of integrity and purpose who will play a pivotal role in building the new Nigeria we all desire.” According to him, the ADC is positioning itself as a home for credible Nigerians disillusioned with the political gamesmanship in the two dominant parties.

At the grassroots level, reactions to the defection were swift and passionate. In Kachia, Ayuba’s home base, dozens of youths held a spontaneous rally, pledging loyalty to his new political movement. “PDP has failed us,” said one supporter, “but Dr. Ayuba is a man who always stands with his people. Wherever he goes, we go.”

For residents of Kaduna State, especially those disillusioned with the current political offerings, Ayuba’s move may present a fresh option in the coming elections. His reputation as a pragmatic leader, coupled with his strong Christian-Muslim coalition, positions him as a possible game-changer in a region where ethno-religious politics often shape electoral outcomes.

Observers say the coming months will be critical as Ayuba begins to build structures within the ADC and consolidate his influence in preparation for what many now believe will be a major political contest. Whether this will culminate in a governorship bid or some other high-profile race remains to be seen, but one thing is certain—Kaduna’s political landscape just got a lot more interesting.

The defection also signals a broader trend of political realignment in Nigeria, where frustrations with traditional party dynamics are pushing some of the nation’s brightest political minds into less conventional platforms. With Dr. Ayuba’s entry, the ADC has not just gained a high-profile member—it may have secured the face of a bold new vision for Kaduna State.

As the political dust settles, residents of the state will be watching closely to see if Ayuba’s move will inspire a wave of defections or ignite a grassroots revolution that could shift the balance of power. For now, the message is loud and clear: the game has changed, and Kaduna’s 2027 political race may no longer be a two-horse affair.