Marafa Dumps ADC For NDC, Cites Legal Uncertainty Ahead Of 2027

ABUJA, NIGERIA — Former Zamfara Central Senator Kabir Garba Marafa has formally defected to the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC), citing unresolved legal tussles in the African Democratic Congress (ADC) and the approaching 2027 election timetable.

Marafa, who served in the Senate between 2011 and 2019, joined the NDC on Tuesday in Abuja alongside a group of his supporters. He was received by the party’s National Leader, Senator Seriake Dickson of Bayelsa West, and NDC National Chairman, Moses Cleopas.

The development represents Marafa’s second party switch in less than a month. He had joined the ADC on April 8, 2026, after leaving the All Progressives Congress (APC) in August 2025 over internal party issues.

While addressing party leaders, Marafa expressed concern over multiple court cases involving the ADC, warning that the lingering disputes pose serious risks to his political plans. He noted that the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has set tight deadlines for party primaries and candidate nominations, leaving limited time for legal resolution.

The ex-senator stressed that any credible participation in the 2027 polls demands a stable and certain platform, something he believes the ADC currently cannot guarantee. He added that prolonged litigation could leave aspirants in a difficult position as the electoral process advances.

Marafa clarified that his exit from the ADC was not driven by personal conflict but by careful assessment of the prevailing political situation. He said consultations with supporters and legal advisers convinced him that the NDC offers a more reliable platform at this critical stage.

He pledged full commitment to the NDC, stating he would abide by whatever presidential candidate the party eventually selects.

Senator Dickson welcomed Marafa, describing him as a significant political voice whose experience and network would strengthen the NDC in Zamfara State and across the North-West. He called on the new member to mobilise his grassroots structure towards supporting the party and tackling insecurity challenges in the region.

NaijaChoice News reports that Marafa’s latest move underscores the fluid nature of political alignments in Nigeria as politicians position themselves ahead of the 2027 general elections.

The defection highlights the premium placed on platform stability by experienced politicians navigating uncertain legal and electoral landscapes in the country.

This latest realignment could reshape political calculations in Zamfara and the North-West zone as parties intensify preparation for the next electoral cycle.