John Ayuba, the 2023 deputy governorship candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Kaduna State, has officially resigned from the party and joined the African Democratic Congress (ADC). This decision, confirmed by Ayuba himself in a telephone interview and a formal resignation letter addressed to his ward chairman, marks another significant departure from the PDP, adding to the increasing wave of exits the party has experienced nationwide in the aftermath of the 2023 general elections. Ayuba’s resignation stems from a deep-seated discontent with the party’s leadership at the national level, citing mismanagement, lack of direction, and what he terms “brazen acts of anti-party activities.”
The core of Ayuba’s grievance lies in the perceived mismanagement of the PDP’s affairs by key national stakeholders, whom he accuses of jeopardizing the party’s future. He specifically points to actions taken against the party’s presidential candidate during the 2023 elections, alleging that these actions constituted anti-party activities and were orchestrated by high-ranking members within the PDP. This lack of party cohesion and the apparent undermining of its own candidate, according to Ayuba, demonstrate a lack of commitment to the party’s success and a disregard for its future.
Furthermore, Ayuba expresses disappointment over the party’s inaction in addressing these critical issues. Months after the elections, he notes, the PDP has failed to take decisive action against those involved in the alleged anti-party activities, leaving loyal members feeling demoralized and disillusioned. This inaction, coupled with the perceived mismanagement, has created an environment of uncertainty and distrust within the party, ultimately leading to Ayuba’s decision to seek a new political home. He emphasizes that remaining in the PDP, given the current circumstances, was no longer a viable option.
Ayuba’s decision to defect was not made lightly. He explains that it followed extensive consultations with his political associates and supporters, indicating a broader dissatisfaction within his political circle with the direction of the PDP. This suggests that his resignation may not be an isolated incident but rather a reflection of a wider sentiment of disillusionment among party members in Kaduna State and potentially across the country. The consultations underscore the seriousness of the issues plaguing the PDP and highlight the potential for further defections in the near future.
While acknowledging the platform and opportunities the PDP provided him, particularly the nomination for the deputy governorship position, Ayuba states that it is time to move on. He expresses gratitude for his time in the PDP but emphasizes that his principles and commitment to the betterment of Kaduna State necessitate his departure. His decision to join the ADC signifies a search for a political platform that aligns with his values and offers a more promising path towards achieving his political goals.
Ayuba’s defection to the ADC reflects the broader challenges facing the PDP in the post-election period. The party is grappling with internal wrangling, discontent among its members, and a loss of direction that has led to a series of high-profile exits. This exodus of members, particularly those who held significant positions within the party, weakens the PDP’s structure and raises questions about its ability to rebuild and effectively challenge in future elections. Ayuba’s case serves as a microcosm of the larger issues plaguing the PDP and highlights the urgent need for the party to address its internal divisions and chart a clear path forward. His departure also potentially strengthens the ADC, providing them with a seasoned politician and expanding their influence in Kaduna State. The political landscape in Kaduna is likely to be impacted by this shift, and the ADC’s ability to capitalize on this new addition will be a key factor in their future electoral performance.
