Former National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Senator Abdullahi Adamu, has defected to the African Democratic Congress (ADC), a move that has sent ripples through Nigeria’s political space as preparations intensify for the 2027 general elections.
Adamu formally announced his defection in Keffi Local Government Area of Nasarawa State, where he was received by leaders of the ADC, party faithful, youth groups and other political stakeholders who gathered to witness the high-profile development.
A founding member of the APC and one of its most influential figures since the party’s emergence in 2015, Adamu’s exit follows months of reported dissatisfaction with the party’s internal operations at both the state and national levels. His defection is widely regarded as a major blow to the ruling party, particularly in the North-Central region.
A former two-term governor of Nasarawa State and a seasoned legislator, Adamu is considered one of the region’s most experienced political actors, with deep grassroots connections and significant national influence.
Speaking at the defection ceremony, Adamu said his decision was guided by principle and conscience, accusing the APC of straying from its founding ideals. He alleged that internal democracy within the party had been eroded, with experienced members sidelined and dissenting voices suppressed.
The event in Keffi was characterised by the display of ADC flags, solidarity songs and enthusiastic chants, highlighting the symbolic importance of the moment for the opposition party.
Welcoming Adamu into the party, ADC leaders described his defection as a major boost to their growing political strength. They said his wealth of experience, nationwide network and grassroots appeal would strengthen the party, while also reflecting increasing public interest in political alternatives beyond the APC and the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).
