Four Former Buhari Ministers and APC Heavyweights Defect to ADC

 Four former ministers from President Muhammadu Buhari’s administration, along with two other influential figures within the All Progressives Congress (APC), have officially defected to the African Democratic Congress (ADC), signaling a major political shift ahead of Nigeria’s 2027 general elections. 

The defectors include Rotimi Amaechi, former Minister of Transportation; Abubakar Malami, ex-Minister of Justice and Attorney-General of the Federation; and Rauf Aregbesola, former Minister of Interior and ex-Governor of Osun State. They were joined by Kashim Imam, a businessman and former TETFUND board chairman, and Chief John Odigie Oyegun, a former APC National Chairman.

The formal takeover of the ADC party structure by these figures took place on July 2, 2025, in Abuja, where Senator David Mark was named Interim National Chairman and Rauf Aregbesola appointed Interim National Secretary. This realignment is part of a broader coalition of opposition leaders, including Atiku Abubakar and Peter Obi, aiming to present a united front against the ruling APC and President Bola Tinubu’s administration in the upcoming elections.

This defection underscores growing dissatisfaction within the APC ranks and reflects deepening divisions as Nigeria approaches a critical electoral period. The move is expected to reshape the political dynamics, as the ADC seeks to capitalize on the experience and influence of its new members to challenge the dominance of the APC. The presidency has publicly criticized the defections, highlighting the internal fractures within the ruling party.

Political analysts suggest that this shift could energize the opposition and increase competition in the 2027 elections, potentially altering Nigeria’s political trajectory. The coalition’s emphasis on unity and reform resonates with voters seeking alternatives to the current government, making the ADC a significant player in the forthcoming electoral contest.

This development marks one of the most notable political realignments in recent Nigerian history, with implications for party politics, governance, and the nation’s democratic process as a whole.