By Nworisa Michael
Adamu Atiku Abubakar, Commissioner for Works in Adamawa State, has resigned from the State Executive Council following his decision not to defect to the All Progressives Congress (APC) alongside Governor Ahmadu Fintiri.
His resignation comes days after Governor Fintiri formally announced his move from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to the APC, a decision that saw 22 commissioners and several special advisers align with the ruling party.
Adamu Abubakar, widely known as a son of former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, was absent from the list of cabinet members who joined the governor in the political realignment.
In a resignation letter made available to journalists in Yola, the commissioner said he could not, in good conscience, follow the governor into the APC.
“I have carefully reflected on the recent political developments and, after deep consideration, I have decided to step down as Commissioner for Works. This decision is guided by my personal convictions and the principles that have shaped my public service,” he wrote.
While he did not explicitly state his next political move, observers believe his refusal to defect signals a divergence from the governor’s new alignment.
Governor Fintiri had earlier described his decision to join the APC as one taken in the interest of Adamawa’s development, arguing that closer ties with the federal government would enhance access to resources and accelerate key projects.
A senior government official, reacting to the resignation, described it as “regrettable but within his constitutional rights,” noting that political office holders are free to make personal decisions regarding party affiliation.
The governor’s mass defection has generated mixed reactions within the state and beyond. Supporters say the move could strengthen cooperation with the federal administration, while critics within the PDP have condemned it as a betrayal of party ideals.
Adamu Abubakar’s departure marks the most prominent exit from the cabinet since the political shift and may signal emerging divisions in Adamawa’s political landscape ahead of the 2027 general elections.
