The 2023 governorship candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Sokoto State, Sa’idu Umar, has resigned his membership of the party, citing unresolved leadership disputes at the national level.
Umar announced his resignation in a letter dated March 10, 2026, which was addressed to the chairman of the PDP in Sarkin Adar Kofar Atiku Ward in Sokoto South Local Government Area.
Copies of the letter were also sent to the PDP chairmen at the local government and state levels.
In the letter, Umar said his decision followed careful consideration of the internal problems affecting the party, especially the existence of parallel leadership structures at the national level.
According to him, the crisis has continued to weaken unity and stability within the party.
“This decision follows careful reflection on the lingering legal challenges and the existence of parallel leadership within the party at the national level, which has unfortunately remained unresolved and continues to hinder unity, stability, and effective political engagement within the party structure,” he wrote.
Umar stated that the persistent disputes within the party had made it difficult for him to continue meaningful political engagement.
Despite leaving the party, he expressed appreciation to the PDP leadership and members for the opportunity given to him to contest the 2023 governorship election in Sokoto State on the party’s platform.
“I remain sincerely grateful to the party for the confidence reposed in me through the opportunity to contest as its gubernatorial candidate in the 2023 General Elections in Sokoto State,” he said.
“I deeply appreciate the support of the leadership, members, and supporters who stood with us throughout the journey.”
Umar also assured his supporters that his resignation from the party would not affect his commitment to democratic principles and the development of Sokoto State.
“While I step aside from the formal membership of the party, I remain committed to the pursuit of good governance, democratic values, and the continued development of our dear state and nation,” he added.
His resignation comes amid ongoing internal challenges within the PDP, which have raised concerns among party stakeholders about unity and organisational stability ahead of future elections.
