The Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) has gained significant political momentum following the defection of Aishatu Dahiru Ahmed Binani, the 2023 governorship candidate of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Adamawa State.
Binani’s move to the NDC comes just months after her exit from the African Democratic Congress (ADC), highlighting a growing trend of political realignments as the 2027 general elections approach.
The former senator was formally welcomed into the party in Abuja by NDC National Leader, Henry Seriake Dickson, alongside National Chairman Moses Cleopas and members of the National Working Committee.
Speaking at the event, Binani said her decision to join the NDC was guided by its constitutional framework and emphasis on structured, policy-driven governance. She noted that the move also reflected the preferences of her political base, many of whom had already aligned with the party.
“My priority is the interest of my supporters,” she stated, adding that Adamawa now boasts one of the highest NDC membership numbers nationwide.
Binani expressed appreciation for the reception she received and pledged to strengthen the party both in Adamawa State and across the country. She also emphasized the need for fairness, transparency, and internal democracy within party structures.
In his remarks, Dickson described the NDC as an inclusive platform ready to attract Nigerians seeking credible political alternatives. He immediately assigned Binani a leadership role in Adamawa State, urging her to work collaboratively with party stakeholders to deepen unity and expand its grassroots presence.
He further called on women and youths to take advantage of the party’s affirmative action policies designed to boost their political participation.
“Every Nigerian has the right to join or leave any political party,” Dickson said, likening political affiliation to a journey. “If the vehicle you boarded is no longer taking you to your destination, you have every right to switch. The NDC is that better vehicle.”
Binani, a prominent figure in northern Nigerian politics, was a strong contender in the 2023 Adamawa governorship race against incumbent Governor Ahmadu Fintiri.
Her defection is expected to significantly reshape the political landscape in Adamawa State while bolstering the NDC’s ambition to emerge as a formidable national force ahead of the 2027 elections.