Shockwaves in Adamawa: Fintiri’s Chief Adviser, Ex-PDP State Chair Joel Madaki Defects to APC — Analysts Predict PDP Meltdown

The political atmosphere in Adamawa State was thrown into turbulence on Thursday as Chief Joel Madaki, Governor Ahmadu Umaru Fintiri’s most senior Special Adviser and a former chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in the state, dramatically dumped the ruling party for the opposition All Progressives Congress (APC).

Madaki, a respected elder statesman, seasoned grassroots mobilizer, and once a formidable gubernatorial aspirant, is widely regarded as one of the strongest pillars of the PDP in Adamawa. His sudden exit has fueled speculations of an imminent collapse within the party and raised questions over Governor Fintiri’s own political future.

Political observers described Madaki’s defection as a “political earthquake” that could weaken the very foundation of the PDP in the state. Analysts argue that with his departure, Fintiri has lost a key strategist and ally whose clout and influence at the grassroots level have long been instrumental in PDP’s electoral victories.

Insiders disclosed that the defection was not unconnected to what Madaki considered “irreconcilable differences” with Governor Fintiri. Allegations of neglect, marginalization, and a lack of political patronage befitting his pedigree were said to have widened the gulf between the two leaders.

While the governor has yet to officially react, sources within Government House suggest that the move may trigger a wave of further defections, as several aggrieved PDP leaders are reportedly weighing their options.

Confirming the defection, APC State Organizing Secretary, Mustapha Atiku Ribadu, said Madaki’s arrival marked a turning point in the state’s political landscape.

“The coming of this respected leader is just a tip of the iceberg,” Ribadu declared. “Chief Madaki brings with him unmatched experience, grassroots muscle, and credibility. More leaders from all walks of life have already indicated their readiness to join the moving train. The PDP should brace up — the tsunami is only just beginning.”

He further boasted that the defection signals the rebirth of the APC in Adamawa ahead of the 2027 general elections. “We are poised for total dominance. The PDP will soon be reduced to irrelevance in this state.”

The development has triggered intense speculation that Governor Fintiri himself might consider abandoning the PDP amid growing cracks within the party. Though unconfirmed, whispers within political circles suggest the governor may be weighing his options as he faces mounting internal rebellion and a restless opposition.

With Joel Madaki’s dramatic defection, Adamawa’s political chessboard has been reset, and the countdown to 2027 promises to be one of the fiercest electoral battles the state has ever witnessed.