Governor Umaru Fintiri has announced his defection from the Peoples Democratic Party to the All Progressives Congress, citing the need to advance development and strengthen ties with the Federal Government.

Fintiri disclosed the decision in a state broadcast on Friday, saying he moved alongside members of his cabinet, political appointees and elected local government chairmen. He said the move was taken in the interest of the people of Adamawa State and national unity.

The defection follows a similar move in the state legislature, where Speaker Wesley Bathiya and 14 other lawmakers resigned from the PDP earlier in the week at the Adamawa State House of Assembly.

During plenary, Bathiya read out letters of resignation from the affected members, formally confirming their exit from the party.

The development marks a major political realignment in Adamawa, with implications for party strength ahead of future elections.