Marafa Dumps APC, Joins ADC Over ‘Political Manipulation’ Claims

Former senator representing Zamfara Central, Kabiru Marafa, has joined the African Democratic Congress (ADC), citing concerns over alleged “political manipulation” within the All Progressives Congress (APC).

Marafa’s move comes at a time of internal disputes within the ADC, following the derecognition of some factional leaderships by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) after a March 12 Court of Appeal judgment.

The former lawmaker had earlier resigned from the APC in August 2025, accusing President Bola Tinubu of neglecting Zamfara State despite its support during the presidential election.

In a statement issued on Thursday by the Director-General of his new media team, Mansur Haruna, Marafa described his defection as a major political shift, noting that his supporters and political structure had moved with him to the ADC.

“After careful deliberations and consideration of the future direction of the political movement, Senator Marafa formally declared his decision to align with the African Democratic Congress,” the statement said.

According to the statement, the decision followed a strategic stakeholders’ meeting held in Kaduna, where Marafa said he consulted “extensively” with political allies and supporters.

He also called on residents of Zamfara State to rally behind his new political platform.

“Marafa called on the good people of the state to massively register with the ADC and support the party, describing it as a credible platform for political transformation, accountability, and good governance,” the statement added.

Explaining his exit from the APC, Marafa pointed to what he described as troubling internal practices within the ruling party.

“The Senator also confirmed his decision to resign from the All Progressives Congress, citing growing concerns over what he described as political manipulations, including alleged attempts to exploit the National Identification Number (NIN) database for partisan political registration,” the statement said.

He noted that his resignation would follow due process to ensure his name is formally removed from the APC membership register.

Marafa also disclosed plans to return to his hometown to complete the formalities of his exit from the APC and secure his ADC membership, after which he will host a major gathering of supporters in Gusau, the Zamfara State capital.

The former senator further expressed concern over developments within opposition parties, warning of “attempts” to create confusion and instability within their ranks.