Aisha Yesufu Dumps ADC, Joins NDC to Contest FCT Senate Seat

By Correspondent in Lokoja.

Aisha Yesufu.
(C) Google
Prominent activist and politician Aisha Yesufu has intensified political permutations ahead of Nigeria’s next general elections after resigning from the African Democratic Congress (ADC) to join the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC), where she is set to contest the Federal Capital Territory senatorial seat.

The development marks a significant transition for the outspoken activist, who is moving from advocacy and political mobilisation into direct electoral participation, a step many observers believe could reshape opposition politics within the FCT.

Yesufu announced her defection through her social media platforms, describing the move as a continuation of her ideological and political alignment, rather than a break from previous engagements.

Central to her decision, she explained, is the reform-oriented political philosophy associated with Peter Obi, whose message she said continues to influence her political direction.

According to her, her earlier association with the ADC was equally driven by shared political ideals, stressing that her move to the NDC reflects her determination to remain consistent with emerging political alignments ahead of the next electoral cycle.

Beyond the party switch, however, the most striking aspect of her announcement is her formal entry into the FCT senatorial race under the NDC platform, signaling a major evolution in her public career.

Yesufu described her departure from the ADC as peaceful and seamless, noting that all necessary formalities were concluded amicably.

She expressed appreciation to members of the party and acknowledged the opportunities and experiences gained during her time with the ADC.

While in the party, she noted that she participated actively in internal engagements and party-building efforts, contributing to organisational development at a period when smaller political parties continue to navigate Nigeria’s highly competitive political environment.

Political analysts say her entry into the race introduces a fresh dimension into the contest for the FCT Senate seat, given her national visibility and strong civil society credentials.

Widely recognised for her prominent role in the Bring Back Our Girls movement campaign and her active participation during the 2023 elections, Yesufu commands considerable influence among youth groups, reform advocates and civic organisations.

Observers believe her candidacy could energise younger voters and expand the reach of emerging political platforms like the NDC, while also testing whether social activism and public influence can be effectively converted into electoral strength.

Her move , they added, reflects a broader trend in Nigeria’s democratic space, where civic actors and social advocates are increasingly stepping into formal politics in a bid to directly influence governance and policymaking.

As political realignments continue ahead of the next elections, Yesufu’s declaration signals that she is no longer content with influencing political discourse from the sidelines, but is now prepared to seek electoral legitimacy in one of the country’s most politically strategic territories.

Edited by Dada Ahmed.