A fresh wave of House defections has reshaped the political landscape in the House of Representatives, as no fewer than 17 lawmakers dumped the African Democratic Congress (ADC) for the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC), while one member moved to the All Progressives Congress (APC). The defections, announced during Tuesday’s plenary, were attributed to persistent internal crises within the ADC.
The latest House defections come amid shifting political alignments ahead of the 2027 general elections. In recent weeks, opposition parties have been engaged in coalition talks and restructuring efforts aimed at strengthening their electoral positions.
The ADC had emerged as a platform for coalition-building among opposition figures. However, internal disputes within the party have continued to surface, raising concerns about its cohesion and stability. The ongoing realignments reflect broader patterns of political repositioning within Nigeria’s party system.
During plenary, the defecting lawmakers formally notified the House of their decision through separate letters. They cited “unresolved crises from the national to ward levels” within the ADC as the primary reason for their exit.
The House defections cut across several states, including Kano, Anambra, Lagos, Edo, and Rivers, reflecting a wide geographical spread. Among those who defected to the NDC are Yusuf Umar Datti, Sani Adamu, Thaddeus Attah, George Ozodinobi, Lilian Obiageli, and OluwaSeyi Sowunmi.
Others include Peter Anekwe, Zakari Umar Mukhtari, George Olawande, Murphy Osaro Omoruyi, Umezuruike Manuchim, Emeka Idu, Jesse Onuakalusi, Ifeanyi Uzokwe, Afam Ogene, and Kamilu Ado.
Some lawmakers explained that the instability within the ADC had affected their ability to effectively represent their constituencies. One of the defectors noted that the decision followed consultations with political stakeholders and constituents.
In a related development, Leke Abejide, representing Yagba Federal Constituency, also announced his defection from the ADC to the APC during the same session. The Speaker acknowledged the letters in line with parliamentary procedure and extended goodwill to the defecting members.
The House defections are expected to alter the balance of power among minority parties in the lower chamber, particularly weakening the ADC’s legislative presence.
The development also underscores the role of internal party disputes as a major driver of defections within Nigeria’s political system. As parties prepare for the 2027 elections, such movements may influence coalition strategies and legislative alignments.
For constituents, the shift raises questions about continuity of representation and the potential impact on constituency-focused legislative priorities.
