Aishatu Binani, the 2023 All Progressives Congress (APC) gubernatorial candidate in Adamawa State, has officially defected to the Nigerian Democratic Congress (NDC), marking a significant shift in the state’s political landscape. The announcement was made on Friday in Adamawa State, where Binani confirmed her new political allegiance amid ongoing factional tensions within the major parties. Her move comes after a series of party switches that have defined her recent political journey, reflecting deepening divisions within Nigeria’s political structure.
Binani’s political trajectory has been marked by frequent party changes, beginning with her departure from the APC in July 2025. At that time, she cited strained relations with the APC leadership in Adamawa State as the primary reason for her defection to the African Democratic Congress (ADC). Her exit from the APC was widely noted as a blow to the party’s unity in the state, especially given her prominent role as a former lawmaker and gubernatorial aspirant.
However, her time in the ADC was also short-lived. By April 2026, reports emerged of internal conflict within the ADC, particularly involving a faction loyal to Binani. This group reportedly resigned en masse from the party over disagreements concerning the conduct of party congresses and leadership appointments. The resignations highlighted growing dissatisfaction within the ADC’s ranks, further weakening the party’s influence in Adamawa politics.
The defection to the NDC signals Binani’s continued search for a political platform that aligns with her ambitions and leadership style. The NDC, though smaller in national influence compared to the APC or ADC, has been positioning itself as a viable alternative in certain regions, particularly where dissatisfaction with dominant parties is high. Binani’s move could bolster the NDC’s presence in Adamawa and potentially influence future electoral dynamics in the state.
Her political journey underscores the fluid nature of party politics in Nigeria, where personal and ideological differences often lead to high-profile defections. As she joins the NDC, Binani brings with her a network of supporters and experience in gubernatorial campaigns, which could strengthen the party’s electoral prospects. The development also raises questions about the stability of political parties in Adamawa and the broader implications for the 2027 gubernatorial elections.
With Binani now aligned with the NDC, political observers will be watching closely to see how this shift affects party alliances and voter sentiment in Adamawa. Her move could inspire further defections or realignments, especially as the next electoral cycle approaches. The political landscape in the state remains volatile, and Binani’s latest decision is likely to add another layer of complexity to the ongoing power struggles.
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