Ahmadu Umaru Fintiri has formally assumed leadership of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Adamawa State, consolidating his recent defection from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in a move that has reshaped the state's political landscape. The ceremony, held in Yola, was supervised by the APC North East Vice Chairman, Mustapha Salihu, and the Minister of Livestock Development, Idi Mukhtar Maiha, underscoring the national significance of the governor's transition to the ruling party.
Addressing party faithful, Fintiri reiterated that his emergence as state party leader was a collective decision, stressing his commitment to unity and cohesion within the APC. He pledged to work tirelessly to strengthen the party's structures and ensure its electoral success in Adamawa.
The governor's formal reception into the APC drew top party officials and supporters, who welcomed him warmly amid expectations that his entry would bolster the party's fortunes in the state.
Observers have described Fintiri’s defection as a significant boost for the APC in Adamawa, citing his political influence and grassroots support base as key assets capable of expanding the party’s reach ahead of future elections.
Salihu praised the governor’s leadership qualities, expressing confidence that his stewardship would usher in development and progress across the state. Maiha similarly welcomed Fintiri, voicing optimism about his ability to reposition the party for greater impact.
In his remarks, Fintiri assured members that unity would remain paramount, promising to work collaboratively with all stakeholders to consolidate gains and open new opportunities for the APC in Adamawa.
The political realignment has also triggered notable changes within the state executive council. Adamu Abubakar, son of former Vice-President Atiku Abubakar, resigned as commissioner for works and energy development.
In a letter dated March 2, 2026, and addressed to the governor through the Secretary to the State Government, Abubakar formally stepped down from his position, though he did not state reasons for his resignation.
His departure followed closely on the heels of Fintiri’s defection to the APC, a move that saw members of the state cabinet and PDP structure align with the ruling party.
In a statement issued by his personal assistant and media aide, Abdulaziz Jauro, the former commissioner thanked the governor “for the rare privilege and confidence bestowed upon him to serve in such a strategic capacity,” describing the appointment as an “honour of immense significance.”
“The former Commissioner also extended heartfelt appreciation to his father for granting him the moral support and blessing to serve the people of Adamawa State,” the statement read, adding that he commended ministry officials “for their professionalism, resilience, and dedication to infrastructural advancement across the state.”
Abubakar further appreciated the people of Jada for their steadfast support and emphasised that his resignation “does not mark the end of his commitment to public service, but rather the beginning of new avenues for developmental collaboration,” reaffirming his readiness to contribute to the growth, unity, and progress of Adamawa State.
