Nasarawa South representative cites personal reasons for exit
In a significant move that has sent ripples through the political landscape of Nasarawa State, Senator Ogoshi Onawo has announced his formal resignation from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).
The lawmaker, who represents the Nasarawa South Senatorial District, made his decision public on Monday, January 12, 2026. In a formal letter addressed to the party chairman of his local ward, Onawo stated that the resignation takes immediate effect, marking the end of his long-standing affiliation with the main opposition party.
The resignation letter, dated January 10, 2026, was directed to the PDP Chairman of Galadimawa Ward in the Doma Local Government Area. Senator Onawo emphasized that his departure was the result of “careful consideration” and was motivated purely by personal reasons. While he did not elaborate on any specific grievances with the party leadership, the move comes amidst a series of high-profile realignments within the National Assembly as politicians begin to position themselves for the 2027 general elections.
Despite his exit, the Senator expressed his sincere appreciation to the leadership and members of the PDP for the opportunities provided to him during his tenure. He noted that he remains “deeply grateful” for the trust and cooperation he enjoyed from his constituents and party faithful alike. This departure is seen as a major blow to the PDP in Nasarawa State, as Onawo has been a pivotal figure in maintaining the party’s presence in the southern senatorial zone.
Speculations rise over potential move to the ADC
While Senator Onawo has not officially declared his next political destination, there is intense speculation within political circles that he may be heading to the African Democratic Congress (ADC). In recent weeks, the Senator has been frequently linked with the ADC, a party that has been aggressively courting disgruntled members from both the APC and the PDP. If he joins the ADC, he would be following a growing trend of lawmakers seeking alternative platforms to realize their future political ambitions.
The ADC has recently positioned itself as a “third force” in Nigerian politics, promising a more inclusive and transparent platform for veteran politicians and newcomers alike. National leaders of the ADC have hinted that they are in talks with several “heavyweights” from the National Assembly to join their ranks before the end of the first quarter of 2026. Onawo’s exit from the PDP is viewed by many analysts as a calculated step toward joining this burgeoning political movement.
In his resignation statement, the Senator offered his best wishes for the PDP’s continued success and progress, suggesting a desire to leave on amicable terms. However, the loss of a sitting Senator is likely to trigger an emergency meeting of the PDP State Working Committee in Lafia. The party will now face the difficult task of restructuring its leadership in Nasarawa South to prevent further defections among its grassroots supporters and local government officials.
Impact on the balance of power in Nasarawa State
Senator Onawo’s resignation is expected to have a profound impact on the balance of power within the Nasarawa State political ecosystem. As a seasoned politician with a strong grassroots following in Doma and surrounding areas, his move could shift the loyalty of thousands of voters. The ruling APC in the state, led by Governor Abdullahi Sule, will likely be watching these developments closely, as any fragmentation in the opposition could further consolidate the ruling party’s dominance.
Political observers suggest that the Senator’s exit may trigger a “domino effect” in the Nasarawa South senatorial district. Many of his loyalists and ward leaders in Galadimawa are expected to follow his lead, potentially hollow out the PDP’s structure in the zone. This realignment could redefine the competitive landscape of the state ahead of the 2027 polls, making the ADC a formidable player in a region traditionally dominated by the two major parties.
As the news of his resignation spreads, supporters of the Senator have taken to social media to express their solidarity, stating that they will support him regardless of the platform he chooses. The coming weeks will likely reveal whether Onawo will formally integrate into the ADC or remain an independent figure in the Senate for a period. For now, the PDP must contend with the reality of losing one of its most prominent voices in the Middle Belt region.
