Senator Aishatu Ahmed Binani, who contested as the All Progressives Congress (APC) governorship candidate in Adamawa State in 2023, has officially defected to the African Democratic Congress (ADC). The move was confirmed by Binani’s media aide, Maulud Usman, who said the switch was quietly declared in Yola to close family members and friends.
Background and Reasons for Defection
- Binani narrowly lost the 2023 governorship election to incumbent PDP governor Ahmadu Fintiri.
- Reports indicate tensions within the Adamawa APC, particularly over the party’s leadership shifting allegiance to the National Security Adviser, Nuhu Ribadu, with whom Binani has a historic political rivalry.
- APC's preference for Ribadu, who lost the 2023 party ticket to Binani and is rumored to have further ambitions in 2027, created an uneasy environment for Binani.
- Observers considered Binani's exit "predictable" given the open divisions and ongoing disputes over party control at state level.
The Quiet Switch and Future Plans
The defection announcement lacked media fanfare but Binani is expected to formally introduce herself to ADC supporters in Yola soon, signaling a fresh start ahead of the 2027 election cycle1.
Her supporters and local analysts note this move significantly boosts the ADC’s profile in Adamawa, potentially altering the state’s political landscape as opposition coalitions begin to form ahead of the next elections.
Broader Political Implications
Binani’s defection adds momentum to the wave of high-profile realignments as politicians jostle for position before 2027.ADC is gaining increased attention from disaffected members of major parties, raising speculation about possible alliances especially as figures like Atiku Abubakar are also linked to ongoing opposition negotiations.
Binani, who previously served as senator for Adamawa Central and enjoys substantial grassroots support, brings electoral credibility to her new party.
