In a significant political shake-up, no fewer than six high-profile members of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) have defected to the African Democratic Congress (ADC). These prominent figures are joining forces with other opposition leaders in a strategic move aimed at unseating President Bola Tinubu in the 2027 general elections.
The defection, which reportedly took place on Wednesday, saw these former APC stalwarts assume leadership positions within the ADC, which has now been adopted as the official platform for the upcoming presidential contest.
The six political heavyweights who have turned their backs on the ruling party to join the burgeoning opposition alliance include:
Rotimi Amaechi: Former Minister of Transportation and a two-term governor of Rivers State. Amaechi was also a notable runner-up in the APC’s 2022 presidential primaries.
Abubakar Malami: Former Minister of Justice and Attorney General of the Federation, known for his influential role in the legal and constitutional policies during the Buhari administration.
Hadi Sirika: Former Minister of Aviation, who was a key figure in the controversial Nigeria Air project.
Rauf Aregbesola: Former Minister of Interior and ex-governor of Osun State. Aregbesola was previously considered a staunch loyalist of President Tinubu, though reports suggest tensions have recently emerged.
Kashim Imam: A prominent businessman and former Chairman of TETFUND’s Board of Trustees, recognized for his significant influence in Northern political and educational spheres.
John Odigie-Oyegun: A founding National Chairman of the APC and former governor of Edo State, who had previously voiced concerns regarding the direction of the party.
This mass defection signals a potential realignment of political forces as the 2027 general elections draw closer, with a united opposition beginning to take shape.
