Barely nine months after quitting the All Progressives Congress (APC) for the African Democratic Congress (ADC), former Adamawa governorship candidate, Aishatu Dahiru Binani, has staged another dramatic political switch, this time pitching her tent with the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC).
The high-profile defection, announced on Friday, is a sign of fresh realignments ahead of the 2027 elections and positions Binani once again at the centre of Nigeria’s shifting political chessboard.
Explaining her latest move, Binani said her decision followed a careful assessment of the NDC’s ideology and direction.
She said, “I believe many Nigerians are asking why I decided to join the NDC. The answer is quite simple. After carefully studying the party’s constitution, I saw a strong commitment to structured, policy-driven governance.
“Some may point out that just nine months ago, I was at another party. Let me say clearly that I will never condemn where I came from. Politics is dynamic and often local in nature, and decisions are made based on prevailing realities.
“However, my foremost priority has always been the interest of my supporters. About nine months ago, we collectively made the decision to join our former party. But over time, for reasons best known to them, my supporters felt it was necessary to move on. They took the initiative and urged me to join the NDC.”
She revealed that her political base had already made significant inroads into the party before her official defection, underscoring the influence of her grassroots structure.
“In fact, before I made my final decision, they had already made significant progress within the party. Today, Adamawa State boasts of having the highest number of registered NDC members. I always say that no individual can succeed in politics alone. It is the supporters who drive the process, build the foundation, and sustain the journey.
“Everything I have achieved in politics is because of their unwavering support, and I remain deeply grateful. At this point, I want to sincerely thank the National Working Committee of the NDC for opening its doors to welcome us.
“All we ask for is fairness, equity, justice, transparency, and, most importantly, the strengthening of internal democracy within the party. These are the principles that will ensure the party’s long-term success,” she said.
Welcoming the former senator and her loyalists, NDC National Leader, Seriake Dickson, described the party as a growing political force ready to absorb new entrants.
He said, “This party is open, inclusive, and ready to harness your energy, ideas, and strength. My dear sister, once again, you are welcome. As the Chairman has rightly said, the flag of leadership of the NDC in Adamawa has now been handed over to you.
“We are confident that when the party’s democratic processes are concluded, we will gather again in Adamawa to formally engage with the good people of the state and to continue building this movement together.
“Let me also extend an open invitation to all Nigerian political leaders who may have doubts about the viability, sustainability, and strength of their current political platforms. The NDC is open. We are ready to receive and work with you.”
Dickson also fired a subtle shot at rival parties, urging dissatisfied politicians to jump ship without fear.
“For those who have already joined other parties and are now witnessing the realities, let me remind you. It is not too late. Do not allow anyone to intimidate or mislead you into believing that you cannot leave a political party once you have joined. That is not the law of Nigeria.
“Every Nigerian has the constitutional right to join any political party at any time—and to leave at any time. Politics is a journey. If the vehicle you boarded is no longer taking you to your destination, you have every right to step down and board a better one.
“The NDC is that better vehicle—strong, reliable, and focused on delivering results. Do not delay because delay can be costly,” he added.
Binani, who flew the APC flag in the fiercely contested 2023 Adamawa governorship race against Ahmadu Umaru Fintiri, remains a formidable political figure in the state.
