By Auwal Umar, Gombe

The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Gombe State has suffered another major political setback as several prominent chieftains have defected to the All Progressives Congress (APC), ahead of the 2027 general elections.

Among the defectors is Hon. Hannatu Wakil, who served as PDP State Women Leader for eight years before becoming the party’s State Organising Secretary.

Explaining her decision to join the APC, Mrs Wakil said she was motivated by the need to support what she described as the good work of the present administration and contribute to efforts aimed at sustaining the state’s development.

She also expressed confidence in Dr Jamilu Isyaku Gwamna, the APC governorship candidate, saying she believes he has the capacity and leadership qualities required to take Gombe State forward. She said her decision was based on her conviction that supporting the administration and Dr Gwamna would be in the best interest of the people of the state.

Also joining the APC is Hon. Asabe Baba Nahaya, a former commissioner and former President of the National Association of Women Journalists (NAWOJ), as well as former Special Adviser, Hon. Sarki Alban.

Hon. Yila Y. Mustafa, who contested the Balanga/Billiri Federal Constituency seat under the PDP in the 2011 and 2015 elections, is also among the latest defectors.

The fresh defections come as political activities intensify across Gombe ahead of the 2027 elections, with the major parties working to strengthen their structures and expand their support bases.

The movement of the prominent PDP figures is expected to further reshape the political landscape in the state and increase pressure on the opposition party as the countdown to 2027 gathers momentum.