By Nkechi Eze
Former Senator representing Zamfara Central, Senator Kabiru Marafa, has defended his decision to leave the African Democratic Congress (ADC) for the National Democratic Congress (NDC), saying the move was driven by internal party instability, unresolved litigation, and what he described as the need for a more viable political platform ahead of future elections.
Speaking in an extensive interview, Marafa traced his political journey across multiple party formations, noting that he had previously been active in the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and later within the political realignments that culminated in the All Progressives Congress (APC). He explained that his engagements across party lines were shaped by evolving political circumstances and internal party dynamics.
He said his recent decision to exit the ADC followed what he described as deep consultations with political associates and legal practitioners, who reviewed the state of the party and advised caution over its future viability amid ongoing court cases and leadership disputes.
According to him, “anybody desirous of contesting any election in Nigeria must be in a stable political party,” adding that the prevailing uncertainty within the ADC made long-term political planning difficult. He noted that pending judicial matters and fears of prolonged litigation could potentially disrupt electoral timelines and party organisation.
Marafa further stated that his movement into the NDC was not motivated by personal ambition or immediate benefit, insisting that he was not offered any financial inducement or political appointment to switch platforms.
He said, “we have not even reached where the food is cooked,” stressing that the decision was not about access to political patronage. He added that contrary to speculation, there was “no food on the table” in the new arrangement, and therefore his decision should not be interpreted as opportunistic.
The former senator also referenced his experience in previous political alignments, alleging that he had participated in campaigns and political support efforts without corresponding rewards. He said such experiences, combined with current uncertainties, influenced his decision to seek what he called a more predictable political structure.
Marafa acknowledged concerns about frequent party defections among Nigerian politicians but maintained that not all such movements are driven by selfish interests. He argued that while some politicians switch parties for personal gain, others are compelled by structural and circumstantial realities.
He stated that after consultations with “about ten people,” at least seven advised him to leave the ADC without delay due to its internal challenges and unresolved disputes. He added that his decision was therefore not unilateral but informed by wide consultation.
Marafa also pointed to ongoing legal disputes affecting party cohesion, warning that unresolved court cases could alter political arrangements close to election periods. He argued that such uncertainty places politicians in a difficult position when making long-term commitments.
He further emphasised that his political decisions remain subject to circumstances beyond individual control, stating that ultimate outcomes in politics are determined by a combination of strategy, timing, and institutional stability.
Marafa concluded that his engagement with the NDC would be guided by collective party decisions, adding that he would support any agreed party direction regarding candidates and electoral participation.
He maintained that his transition should be understood within the broader context of Nigeria’s fluid political environment, where party stability, litigation risks, and internal disagreements continue to shape political alignments.
