Aslam Aliyu, a prominent ally of former Vice-President Atiku Abubakar and a leading opposition figure in Zamfara State, has resigned from the African Democratic Congress (ADC) and joined the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC). Aliyu announced her defection in a statement released on Sunday, July 5, in Abuja, citing nearly two decades of working within Atiku's political camp that led her to conclude the opposition lacked a credible path forward for Nigeria.
Aliyu Cites Lack of Development Blueprint
In her statement, Aliyu said: "For almost two decades, I worked tirelessly within the political camp of H.E Atiku Abubakar ADC Presidential Candidate 2027. Throughout that entire period, my loyalty never wavered. However, after almost two decades of dedicated engagement, it has become undeniably clear that the opposition lacks a meaningful development blueprint or a viable and sustainable national rescue plan." She accused the ADC of offering nothing beyond criticism of the government, describing the party's approach as devoid of concrete solutions, according to The Cable.
Aliyu Endorses President Tinubu for 2027
Aliyu argued that meaningful political participation must be anchored in measurable progress rather than what she termed "theatrical criticism." She declared her backing for President Bola Tinubu and urged Nigerian youths, women, and forward-thinking opposition members to join the current administration's political project ahead of the 2027 general elections. "I am a mother, calling on patriotic Nigerian youths, women, and forward-thinking opposition members to abandon counterproductive politics and join hands with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu," she said. "There is no vacancy in Aso Rock Villa, as Bola Ahmed Tinubu will emerge as the winner of the presidential election come 2027, by the grace of Almighty Allah."
APC National Chairman Welcomes Aliyu
APC national chairman Nentawe Yilwatda welcomed Aliyu's defection warmly, posting on X on Monday: "Welcome to the All Progressives Congress, Gimbiya Dr Aslam Aliyu. You have made the right switch to join millions of other Progressives across Nigeria in furthering the ideals of the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu. We are proud to have you in our folds," as reported by Vanguard. Aliyu previously served as leader of Project Atiku Abubakar (PAA) 2027 and Zamfara Top 10, a coalition of digital media campaigners and online mobilisers committed to advancing the ADC presidential candidate's bid. As recently as July 2025, Atiku himself publicly referred to her as a "top Zamfara politician" during a meeting with her team.
Background and Context
Aliyu's defection follows a trend of opposition members joining the APC. Earlier, 34 Katsina State House of Assembly aspirants from 18 local government areas dumped the ADC for the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), citing injustice, poor leadership, and lack of opportunities. Aliyu's move underscores the shifting political alliances ahead of the 2027 elections, with the APC consolidating support from former opposition figures.
