Tanko Yunusa, the former Obidient Movement leader and political adviser to the presidential candidate of the Nigeria Democratic Congress, Peter Obi, has announced his defection to the Social Democratic Party.

Mr Yunusa announced this on Wednesday at his unveiling as the SDP’s national presidential coordinator during the inauguration of the party’s campaign council in Abuja.

Mr Yunusa said, “The SDP is a left-wing political party. For those of you who do not know, we represent the interests of the downtrodden. The SDP represents those people that you neglect on the streets. So, that makes this particular party people-oriented.”

He said his resignation followed his appointment as co-chair of the National Consultative Front after the death of the former co-chairman and ex-speaker of the House of Representatives, Ghali Na’Abba. This prompted him to work with his compatriot in the group and the SDP presidential candidate, Adewole Adebayo.

“I have returned my work back to the house, back to the National Consultative Forum as co-chair. Therefore, I wish to accept the new role with humility and total commitment to work wholeheartedly with my compatriot in the National Consultative Front who is His Excellency, Prince Adewole Adebayo.”

Stating that his relationship with Mr Adebayo dated back to 2023 and noting that they both shared a commitment to building a better Nigeria, Mr Yunusa pledged to work with Mr Adebayo and his running mate, Usman Bugaje, to secure victory in the 2027 elections.

The former presidential candidate and national chairman of the National Conscience Party pledged to advance the party’s collective vision of a Nigeria that works for all by remaining consistent and committed to the party’s unwavering belief in good governance, justice, equity, national loyalty and dedication.