Malami Dumps APC for ADC, Blames Federal Government for Governance Failure

Former Attorney-General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Abubakar Malami, has announced his resignation from the All Progressives Congress (APC) and declared his defection to the African Democratic Congress (ADC), citing deep dissatisfaction with the performance of the Federal Government.

Malami made the announcement during the unveiling of the newly formed opposition coalition at the Yar’Adua Centre in Abuja on Tuesday.

The event, which brought together key political figures including former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, former Anambra State Governor Peter Obi, former Senate President David Mark, former Kaduna State Governor Nasir El-Rufai, and former Minister of Transportation Rotimi Amaechi, marks a major step in the build-up to the 2027 general elections.

Speaking at the event, Malami said his decision followed wide consultations and personal reflection.

He criticised the APC for abandoning its founding principles and failing to address the economic and security challenges facing the country.

“This is not about ambition. This is about conscience,” Malami said. “Our people are suffering. Food prices have tripled, youths are jobless, and insecurity has become a daily nightmare. I cannot continue to associate myself with a government that has lost direction.”

He also accused the ruling party of prioritising loyalty over competence in appointments, leading to ineffective governance and disillusionment across the country.

“The APC has failed to reward merit and has made governance a game of propaganda. I have chosen to stand with the people and join a movement committed to real change and development,” he added.

Malami’s defection is viewed as a significant development in the growing momentum of the opposition coalition led by the ADC. The party, now positioning itself as the political alternative ahead of the 2027 elections, has appointed David Mark as interim national chairman and Rauf Aregbesola as interim national secretary.

The coalition is made up of key political stakeholders across the country and aims to unite opposition forces to challenge the APC’s hold on power.

However, the APC has dismissed the coalition as lacking direction and credibility. Presidential aide Sunday Dare said the movement bears no resemblance to the APC merger of 2013 and is driven by personal ambitions rather than a national vision.

Also reacting, FCT Minister Nyesom Wike, along with Festus Keyamo and Daniel Bwala, described the coalition as a gathering of expired politicians, insisting it poses no real threat to the ruling party.

Despite the criticisms, political observers believe the wave of defections signals rising discontent and could significantly influence the political dynamics ahead of the next election cycle. Malami reaffirmed his commitment to helping chart a new course for Nigeria, saying the coalition represents a genuine effort to rescue the country.

“The time to act is now. We need new thinking, sincere leadership and focused governance. This is not just politics for me—it is a call to duty,” he stated.