Former Adamawa State governorship candidate, Senator Aishatu Binani, has formally joined the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC), marking another major political move ahead of the 2027 general elections.
Binani received her NDC membership card on Friday, nine months after she left the ruling All Progressives Congress(APC) for the African Democratic Congress (ADC).
The former lawmaker said her latest defection was influenced by the structure of the NDC, its commitment to policy-driven governance and the position of her political supporters in Adamawa State.
Speaking shortly after joining the party, Binani said she was aware that many Nigerians would question her decision to move to another political platform within a short period.
She, however, said politics remained dynamic and that political decisions were often shaped by local realities and the interest of supporters.
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.”
Binani said the decision to join the NDC did not come from her alone, stressing that her supporters had already begun working within the party before she formally joined.
According to her, her political base remains the foundation of her public journey and the reason for her achievements in politics.
She said, “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.
NDC Is Open – Dickson To Nigerian Political Leaders
Welcoming Binani and her supporters, the National Leader of the NDC and former Bayelsa State governor, Senator Seriake Dickson, described the party as an open and inclusive political platform.
Dickson said the NDC was ready to accommodate new members and expand its political base across the country.
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 called on politicians who were no longer comfortable in their current parties to reconsider their options.
He said no politician should feel trapped or intimidated into remaining in a party that no longer serves their political interest.
The former governor said, “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.
2023 Adamawa Contest
She was the APC governorship candidate in the 2023 Adamawa election, where she challenged the incumbent governor, Ahmadu Fintiri of the Peoples Democratic Party, in one of the most closely watched governorship contests of that election cycle.
The election drew national attention after the then Resident Electoral Commissioner in the state, Hudu-Yunusa Ari, controversially declared Binani the winner while collation was still ongoing.
The declaration triggered outrage and was later nullified by the Independent National Electoral Commission, which also suspended the REC.
