In a significant political development ahead of the 2027 general elections, Senator Mohammed Hassan Dambu, a former senator representing Yobe State, has officially resigned from the All Progressives Congress (APC) and joined the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC). The move was announced on Wednesday, May 6, 2026, by NDC founder Henry Seriake Dickson via his social media platforms.
Dambu’s Defection Announced
Dickson took to X (formerly Twitter) and Facebook to welcome Dambu and other political leaders and stakeholders from Yobe State into the NDC. In his statement, Dickson emphasized that the NDC was established not to weaken the opposition but to provide an alternative platform for all opposition parties and well-meaning Nigerians. He said, “Our doors remain open to all members of opposition parties and even aggrieved members of the ruling party—because we are all Nigerians, with the constitutional freedom to join political parties of our choice without coercion, inducement, or intimidation by anyone.”
Dickson also received High Chief Peter Ojemen (Don P) MFR, the Okodalo of Esanland from Edo State, along with other patriots who share the vision of the NDC. He assured all new members that they would be treated with fairness and respect, and given the freedom to pursue their political aspirations within the party’s constitutional framework.
Kwankwaso Welcomes Dambu
Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, former governor of Kano State and a prominent NDC chieftain, confirmed Dambu’s defection. Kwankwaso disclosed that the NDC leadership formally received Dambu into the party after a productive meeting at Dickson’s residence in Abuja. He praised Dambu as a seasoned grassroots mobilizer and outstanding legislator who distinguished himself during his tenure representing Yobe South in the Senate.
Kwankwaso stated, “We are delighted to welcome Senator Mohammed Hassan (Dambu) into the NDC. He is a seasoned grassroots mobiliser and an outstanding legislator. It was a pleasure to formally receive him into the party today.”
Background and Implications
Senator Dambu’s resignation from the APC and his subsequent joining of the NDC mark a notable shift in the political landscape as parties realign ahead of the 2027 elections. The NDC, founded by Henry Seriake Dickson, has been positioning itself as a unifying force for opposition parties. This defection follows a trend of politicians moving to the NDC, including Senator Victor Umeh, who earlier left the African Democratic Congress (ADC) citing internal disputes.
Political analysts view this move as a strengthening of the NDC’s base in the Northeast, particularly in Yobe State, where Dambu commands significant grassroots support. With the 2027 elections approaching, such realignments are expected to continue as parties seek to consolidate their positions.
