Political Shockwave in Nasarawa as Sarkin Dawaki Mai Tuta Dumps APC for SDP
Tanimu Salihu’s Defection Rocks Wamba Politics, Signals Fresh Realignment Ahead of 2027
By Suleiman Abubakar Rimi Uku Lafia
The political atmosphere in Nasarawa State has been thrown into fresh tension following the dramatic resignation of a prominent APC stakeholder and traditional title holder, Alhaji Tanimu Salihu, popularly known as Sarkin Dawaki Mai Tuta of Wamba, from the All Progressives Congress (APC) to the Social Democratic Party (SDP).
The high-profile political move, which is already generating widespread reactions across Wamba Local Government Area and the Nasarawa North Senatorial District, was formally communicated in a resignation letter addressed to the APC Chairman of Wayo Ward.
In the letter dated April 22, 2026, Alhaji Tanimu Salihu announced his immediate exit from the ruling party, citing personal principles and political convictions as reasons behind his decision.
The defection is being viewed by political analysts as a major setback for the APC in Wamba, considering the influence and political network of the former party stalwart within grassroots structures and local political circles.
Sources close to the development disclosed that the former APC chieftain has fully aligned with the Social Democratic Party (SDP), a move believed to be part of a broader political realignment ahead of the 2027 general elections in Nasarawa State.
Observers say the development may trigger further defections within the APC, especially among dissatisfied stakeholders in Nasarawa North, where underground consultations and coalition talks have reportedly intensified in recent months.
“This is not an ordinary resignation. It is a strong political statement capable of altering the equation in Wamba politics,” a political stakeholder in Lafia told Rimawaglobalnews.
In his resignation letter, Tanimu Salihu appreciated members and leaders of the APC for the opportunity to serve within the party but requested that his name be removed from the party register and all related records.
Meanwhile, the APC leadership in Wamba Local Government has remained silent over the defection, even as supporters of the SDP celebrated the development, describing it as a major boost for the party’s growing influence in Nasarawa State.
Political watchers believe the coming months may witness intensified political movements, alignments, and strategic defections as the battle for 2027 gradually gathers momentum across the state.
