Former Senator representing Zamfara Central Senatorial District, Senator Kabir Garba Marafa, formally defected to the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) on Tuesday, along with his supporters. This move marks his second party switch in under a month.
Senator Marafa, who served in the Senate from 2011 to 2019, was welcomed by the NDC National Leader and Senator for Bayelsa West, Seriake Dickson, at Dickson’s residence in Abuja. The NDC National Chairman, Senator Moses Cleopas, and other party stakeholders were also present.
The defection comes just three weeks after Marafa joined the African Democratic Congress (ADC) on 8th April 2026. He had previously resigned from the All Progressives Congress (APC) on 28th August 2025, citing internal disputes within the ruling party.
Speaking to journalists shortly after receiving his NDC membership card, Marafa explained that his departure from the ADC was prompted by concerns over numerous ongoing legal challenges and the limited time remaining before critical electoral deadlines set by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).
“The point of joining a political party is to provide an opportunity to contest and serve your people. If I were to ask you, what are the chances of the ADC succeeding?” Marafa questioned.
He stressed that his decision wasn’t motivated by ill will towards the ADC. “I’m not wishing them anything bad, as they are my friends and partners. We are united in this struggle. However, considering the number of legal cases pending and the limited time left, anyone intending to contest an election in Nigeria needs to be a member of a substantial political party by, at the latest, 9th May,” he said.
Marafa expressed doubt about the ADC’s ability to resolve its legal issues before key dates for party primaries and candidate registration. “How many court cases are we waiting for to determine the ADC’s fate? Let’s be honest and fair to ourselves. We’re awaiting a decision from the Supreme Court, knowing that the outcome could be evenly split, potentially leading to further litigation.”
He warned that prolonged legal battles could leave him and his supporters without a viable platform. “If that happens, where would we begin? By the time registration closes, what will I tell my people? That I waited in the ADC hoping for a favourable resolution, which isn’t even in their control?”
The former Senator said the decision to move to the NDC followed extensive consultations with his political base and legal advisors. “This is the main reason I met with my supporters to brainstorm and engaged experienced lawyers to assess the situation and advise us. Their advice led me and my supporters to join the NDC.”
Marafa pledged his loyalty to the NDC’s leadership and internal processes. “Therefore, whatever decision my new party, the NDC, takes regarding its presidential candidate when the time comes, we will respect it,” he said.
Senator Dickson described Marafa as a seasoned politician whose arrival would strengthen the NDC, particularly in Zamfara State and the wider North-West geopolitical zone. He urged Marafa to utilise his grassroots network to mobilise support and help address insecurity in the region.
“I welcome and recognise the distinguished delegation you’ve brought with you. Marafa is a significant figure, hailing from the Savannah region of Nigeria,” Dickson said. “This isn’t simply about joining a political party; it’s about a commitment to service, leadership, and delivering results for the people. The NDC is a party for everyone, including the less privileged and those who are hungry and insecure. That’s why our motto is service to the people.”
NDC National Chairman, Senator Moses Cleopas, added that the party is founded on a people-oriented agenda centred on inclusion, service delivery, and national renewal. He noted that the NDC is positioning itself as a credible alternative platform for women, young people, and people with disabilities as political activity intensifies ahead of the 2027 general election.
Marafa’s defection is considered a boost to the NDC’s efforts to expand its presence in the North-West, a region considered crucial in national elections.