By John Umeh
In a stunning political development that has sent shockwaves across Nigeria’s political landscape, three prominent figures — former Attorney General of the Federation (AGF) Abubakar Malami, former Senator Dino Melaye, and ex-Minister of Transportation Rotimi Amaechi — have officially resigned their membership of the All Progressives Congress (APC) and joined the African Democratic Congress (ADC).
The high-profile defections were announced on Tuesday in Abuja during a joint press briefing organized by ADC leadership, where the trio were formally welcomed into the party.
A United Front for “A New Political Order”
Speaking at the event, Abubakar Malami said his decision to exit the APC was born out of deep disappointment with the direction of the party. He emphasized that the ideals that brought many progressives into the APC fold in 2015 had long been abandoned.
“I can no longer be part of a political party that has derailed so far from the principles of justice, accountability, and good governance. The ADC offers a new platform to rekindle hope,” Malami declared.
Dino Melaye, known for his flamboyant political style and vocal criticism of the establishment, said the decision was strategic and timely.
“This is not about personal ambition. It’s about rescuing Nigeria from the grip of political decay. The ADC represents a fresh breath for the Nigerian masses,” Melaye said.
Rotimi Amaechi, once a powerful figure within the APC and a key player in President Muhammadu Buhari’s campaigns, expressed similar frustrations. He accused the ruling party of alienating key voices and abandoning the spirit of internal democracy.
“The APC no longer speaks for the people. It has become a machine for self-interest and personal aggrandizement. Nigeria deserves better, and the ADC is offering that alternative,” Amaechi said.
ADC Gears Up for 2027
The defection of such heavyweight politicians is being seen as a major boost for the ADC, which has largely remained on the fringes of national politics. With the entrance of Malami, Melaye, and Amaechi, the party is now positioning itself as a formidable force ahead of the 2027 general elections.
ADC National Chairman, Ralph Okey Nwosu, expressed confidence that the new entrants will “inject strength, credibility, and experience” into the party. He described their decision as “a turning point in Nigeria’s quest for a people-first government.”
Implications for the APC and Beyond
Analysts say this wave of defections could signal deeper cracks within the APC, especially as the 2027 elections approach. The exit of Amaechi and Malami — two key northern and southern figures — could also impact the party’s regional balance and strategy.
Furthermore, with Dino Melaye’s grassroots mobilization skills and media presence, the ADC may be positioning itself to court the youth vote and dissatisfied electorate.
A Coalition in the Works?
There is also growing speculation that the ADC may be seeking a wider alliance with other opposition elements, including the Labour Party and factions within the PDP, to form a “mega coalition” to challenge the dominance of the APC in the next electoral cycle.
Whether this defection is a one-off political stunt or a strategic realignment remains to be seen, but what is clear is that the winds of political change are beginning to gather force in Nigeria — and the 2027 contest is already heating up.
