Yakasai Dumps APC Again, Joins ADC in Fresh Political Realignment

Salihu Tanko Yakasai, a controversial and outspoken political figure from Kano State, has officially announced his defection from the All Progressives Congress (APC) to the African Democratic Congress (ADC), marking yet another shift in his political journey.

Yakasai, popularly known as “Dawisu,” made the announcement via his social media platform, stating that the decision followed extensive consultations with family members, political associates, and close allies. According to him, the move represents a deliberate step toward embracing a “new direction” in his political career.

“I have accordingly tendered my resignation from the APC and completed my registration with our new party, the ADC,” he said. He also encouraged interested supporters to join the ADC through its online registration platform, expressing optimism about the party’s future.

In his statement, Yakasai prayed for divine guidance, asking that his decision yield positive outcomes not only for himself but for the country at large. He also expressed hope that the ADC would grow strong enough to form government at various levels and deliver meaningful benefits to Nigerians.

Yakasai is no stranger to political controversy. He previously served as Special Adviser on New Media to former Kano State Governor Abdullahi Umar Ganduje. During his time in government, he frequently made headlines for his outspoken views, often courting public backlash.

He was notably suspended in October 2020 after criticizing then-President Muhammadu Buhari over the handling of the End SARS protests. Though he was later reinstated, his tenure remained turbulent. In February 2021, he was sacked and briefly detained by the Department of State Services (DSS) after calling on Buhari to resign amid worsening insecurity, particularly following the abduction of schoolchildren by bandits.

Despite these setbacks, Yakasai has maintained a strong presence in Nigeria’s political discourse, often using social media to air his views. His critics and supporters alike have come to expect bold and sometimes polarizing statements from him.

Over the years, his political affiliations have shifted multiple times. After initially leaving the APC in March 2022, he later returned to the party in August 2023, citing efforts to consolidate political gains. His return was reportedly influenced by his former boss, Ganduje, who at the time held a prominent position within the APC.

However, recent developments appear to have strained his relationship with the ruling party once again. In the past few months, Yakasai has emerged as a vocal critic of the administration of President Bola Tinubu. He has accused the government of favoring certain regions over others and has argued that the northern part of the country has been sidelined in terms of appointments and development projects.

His criticisms have sparked debates within political circles, with some viewing his stance as principled, while others interpret it as opportunistic or driven by personal grievances. His recent move to the ADC is therefore seen by many as both strategic and symbolic.

The ADC, which positions itself as an alternative platform to Nigeria’s dominant political parties, may benefit from Yakasai’s visibility and grassroots influence, particularly in Kano and parts of northern Nigeria. However, questions remain about the long-term impact of his defection, especially given his history of switching allegiances.

As Nigeria’s political landscape continues to evolve ahead of future elections, Yakasai’s latest move adds another layer of intrigue. Whether this marks a stable new chapter or another temporary alignment remains to be seen.