In a stunning political shift, former Attorney-General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Abubakar Malami, has officially resigned from the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) and announced his defection to the African Democratic Congress (ADC).
Malami’s move, revealed on Wednesday in a personal statement titled “To the Good People of Kebbi and Fellow Nigerians”, aligns with a growing opposition front that has adopted the ADC as its joint platform for the 2027 general elections.
“My decision is not driven by personal ambition or grievance,” Malami wrote, “but by a deep love for our nation and concern for the hardship our people are facing daily.”
The former minister, who served under both the Buhari and Tinubu administrations, cited deepening insecurity, worsening poverty, and declining governance standards as reasons for his departure from the APC.
“Nigeria is bleeding,” he said. “Insecurity has taken over our homes, especially in the North. Banditry, kidnappings, and terrorism have become part of our lives, while the government prioritises politics over the safety of its citizens.”
He also lamented soaring inflation and the collapse of livelihoods.
“Prices of basic food items have tripled. The poor can no longer feed their families. Jobs are disappearing. Young people are hopeless,” he added.
Malami didn’t hold back in his criticism of the current administration, accusing it of sacrificing merit for political loyalty.
“Governance has been abandoned. Appointments, projects, and policies are now guided by political loyalty, not national interest. I cannot remain part of a system that watches in silence as Nigerians suffer and die.”
Explaining his choice of political home, Malami described the ADC as a party rooted in “justice, inclusion, competence, and national renewal.”
“I believe that through this coalition, and with the support of Nigerians, we can create a better future for our beloved nation,” he said, urging his supporters in Kebbi State and across the country to embrace the movement.
Malami’s defection comes just hours after an influential meeting of opposition leaders at the Shehu Musa Yar’Adua Centre in Abuja, where the ADC was officially adopted as the flagship platform for a united opposition coalition.
The coalition, described by insiders as the most formidable challenge yet to the APC since 2015, has named former Senate President David Mark as its interim National Chairman and former Osun State Governor Rauf Aregbesola as interim Secretary.
The meeting was attended by key figures from across the political spectrum, including Atiku Abubakar (PDP), Peter Obi (Labour Party), Nasir El-Rufai, Rotimi Amaechi, Dele Momodu, Senator Dino Melaye, Senator Ireti Kingibe, Emeka Ihedioha, Air Marshal Sadique Abubakar (retd.), and leaders of the SDP, LP, and other political movements.
Malami’s switch positions him as a key opposition figure in Kebbi State, where recent defection of PDP senators to the APC had given the ruling party an edge. His alignment with the new coalition could reconfigure the political landscape in the Northwest.
As Nigeria prepares for the 2027 elections, Malami’s defection signals not only growing dissatisfaction within APC ranks but also adds significant weight to a resurgent opposition movement aiming to challenge the status quo.
“This is about the soul of Nigeria,” Malami concluded. “The ADC and this coalition offer hope—not just for change, but for a country that works for all.