ADC Gains Momentum as Nine Senators Defect from PDP, LP and APGA
A major political shift unfolded in Nigeria’s Senate on Thursday as nine lawmakers from different opposition parties officially defected to the African Democratic Congress (ADC). The senators, who were previously members of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Labour Party (LP), and All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA), announced their defection during proceedings inside the Senate chamber.
The development marks one of the most significant waves of defections in the upper legislative chamber in recent months and is expected to reshape the political dynamics within the Senate.
Among those who joined the ADC is Ireti Kingibe, the senator representing the Federal Capital Territory, who moved from the Labour Party to the ADC. Also making the switch is Mohammed Ogoshi Onawo, who represents Nasarawa South and defected from the Peoples Democratic Party.
Former Sokoto State governor and senator representing Sokoto South, Aminu Waziri Tambuwal, also announced his exit from the PDP to join the ADC. Similarly, Binos Dauda Yaroe, the senator representing Adamawa South, left the PDP for the ADC.
In Abia State, two senators were part of the political realignment. Austin Akobundu, who represents Abia Central, defected from the PDP, while Enyinnaya Abaribe, the senator representing Abia South, moved from the All Progressives Grand Alliance to the ADC.
From Anambra State, two lawmakers also joined the ADC. Victor Umeh, representing Anambra Central, and Tony Nwoye, representing Anambra North, both left the Labour Party to align with the new platform.
Completing the list is Lawal Adamu Usman, the senator representing Kaduna Central, who also dumped the Peoples Democratic Party for the African Democratic Congress.
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The coordinated defection highlights growing political realignments within Nigeria’s opposition landscape and could influence alliances ahead of future legislative and electoral contests. Observers say the move may strengthen the ADC’s presence in the National Assembly while also reshaping opposition strategies in the Senate.