Kebbi Lawmaker Maidoki: I Entered Politics Due to Insecurity in My Constituency

Senator Garba Maidoki, representing Kebbi South Senatorial District at the National Assembly, has revealed that his entry into politics was driven solely by the worsening insecurity in his constituency. In a candid interview on Tuesday as a guest on Channels Television’s Politics Today, Maidoki explained that he had no initial interest in political office but felt compelled to act due to the persistent threats to lives and property in his area. He emphasized that community efforts to secure their neighborhoods had reached a limit, prompting a shift toward using democratic tools to bring about change.

Maidoki stated that the decision to enter politics came from a realization that “using our ballot papers wisely is better than using our bullets.” This sentiment reflects a growing concern among Nigerians about how insecurity is reshaping political participation across the country. The senator’s remarks highlight a broader trend where citizens, especially in conflict-prone regions, are turning to elected office as a means of influencing security policies and governance from within the system.

On the same day, Maidoki formally left the All Progressives Congress (APC) and joined the African Democratic Congress (ADC). This move follows prolonged internal conflicts within the APC, particularly after the recently concluded party primaries in Kebbi State. The unresolved disputes and leadership tensions within the ruling party appear to have pushed Maidoki to seek a new political home where he believes his voice and agenda for security reform can be better heard and implemented.

The shift from APC to ADC is significant, especially in a state where political alignments often mirror ethnic and regional dynamics. Maidoki’s decision may signal a broader realignment in Kebbi State politics, potentially influencing future electoral strategies and party structures. His departure also adds to the growing list of APC defectors across Nigeria, particularly among lawmakers frustrated by internal party governance.

Maidoki’s journey into politics underscores the deep connection between insecurity and political engagement in Nigeria’s northern regions. As violence and banditry continue to plague communities, more individuals are stepping into public office not for personal ambition, but to address the urgent need for safety and stability. His statement that he entered politics “because of insecurity” resonates with many Nigerians who view governance as a critical tool in combating insecurity.

Looking ahead, Maidoki’s move to the ADC could influence the party’s positioning in Kebbi State and beyond, especially as the 2027 general elections approach. His experience and visibility may help the ADC gain traction in areas where the APC has struggled to maintain unity and deliver on security promises.