Ex-PDP Sokoto Governorship Candidate Resigns Over National Leadership Crisis

TRUETELLS Nigeria reports: Sa’idu Umar, the 2023 governorship candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Sokoto State, has officially resigned from the party, citing unresolved leadership disputes at the national level.

Umar communicated his decision in a letter dated March 10, 2026, addressed to the PDP chairman of Sarkin Adar Kofar Atiku Ward in Sokoto South Local Government Area, with copies sent to the party’s local and state leadership.

In the letter, he explained that persistent internal challenges, particularly the existence of parallel leadership structures at the national level, had undermined unity and stability within the party.

“This decision follows careful reflection on the lingering legal challenges and the existence of parallel leadership within the party at the national level, which has unfortunately remained unresolved and continues to hinder unity, stability, and effective political engagement within the party structure,” Umar stated.

He noted that the ongoing disputes had made it increasingly difficult to sustain meaningful political engagement but expressed gratitude to the PDP for allowing him to contest the 2023 governorship election in Sokoto State.

“I remain sincerely grateful to the party for the confidence reposed in me through the opportunity to contest as its gubernatorial candidate in the 2023 General Elections in Sokoto State. I deeply appreciate the support of the leadership, members, and supporters who stood with us throughout the journey,” Umar said.

Despite stepping away from the party, Umar reassured his supporters that his commitment to democratic principles and the development of Sokoto State remains unchanged.

“While I step aside from the formal membership of the party, I remain committed to the pursuit of good governance, democratic values, and the continued development of our dear state and nation,” he added.

His resignation highlights the ongoing internal challenges within the PDP, raising concerns among party stakeholders about unity and organizational stability ahead of upcoming political contests.

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