In a dramatic political twist, at least six influential figures from the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) have formally parted ways with the party and pitched their tents with the African Democratic Congress (ADC), setting the stage for what may become a fierce contest in the 2027 general elections.
These defectors include four former ministers who served under the administration of ex-President Muhammadu Buhari, and are now openly aligning with opposition leaders to challenge the leadership of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
Among the prominent defectors are:
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Rotimi Amaechi – Former Minister of Transportation and ex-Governor of Rivers State. Once a close political ally of President Buhari, Amaechi’s defection signals deepening cracks within the APC’s ranks.
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Abubakar Malami (SAN) – The former Attorney General and Minister of Justice, known for his central role in the Buhari administration’s legal policies, has now switched lanes to join the ADC coalition.
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Hadi Sirika – The former Minister of Aviation, who oversaw several controversial initiatives including the failed Nigeria Air project, is now part of the new political movement.
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Rauf Aregbesola – The ex-Interior Minister and former Governor of Osun State, whose relationship with the Tinubu-led faction of APC has been rocky for years, has also crossed over.
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Kashim Imam – A seasoned businessman and former board chairman of TETFUND, Imam adds a technocratic edge to the new coalition.
The sixth name, though not yet officially announced, is expected to be revealed soon as momentum builds within the camp.
This shift comes after these APC stalwarts, expressing growing dissatisfaction with Tinubu’s leadership style and policy direction, joined other opposition leaders including Atiku Abubakar and Peter Obi to formally adopt the ADC as their new political platform during a widely publicized meeting on Wednesday.
The coalition, formed under the banner of uniting Nigeria and salvaging its democracy, intends to challenge the dominance of the APC in 2027, promising reforms and a break from the old order.
Political observers believe this marks the beginning of a long and potentially game-changing electoral season. The ADC, once considered a fringe party, now finds itself at the centre of Nigeria’s shifting political landscape.
