By Christiana Ekpa
A wave of defections swept through the House of Representatives on Tuesday as no fewer than 18 lawmakers formally announced their exit from the African Democratic Congress (ADC) to the National Democratic Congress (NDC) during plenary.
The defectors, drawn from Kano, Anambra, Lagos, Edo and Rivers states, cited persistent internal crises within the ADC, describing the situation as “unresolved from the national to ward levels.”
Their decisions were conveyed through separate letters read on the floor of the House.
Among them, Yusuf Umar Datti, representing Kura/Madobi/Garun Mallam Federal Constituency of Kano State, said the lingering instability in the ADC had hindered effective representation of his constituents.
Similarly, Harris Okonkwo, who represents Idemili North/Idemili South Federal Constituency of Anambra State, said his defection followed extensive consultations with stakeholders and constituents.
Other lawmakers who moved to the NDC include Sani Adamu (Minjibir/Ungogo, Kano); Thaddeus Attah (Eti-Osa, Lagos); Deputy Minority Whip, George Ozodinobi (Njikoka/Anaocha/Dunukofia, Anambra); Lilian Obiageli (Awka North/Awka South, Anambra); OluwaSeyi Sowunmi (Ojo, Lagos); Peter Anekwe (Anambra East/West); Zakari Umar Mukhtari (Tarauni, Kano); George Olawande (Amuwo Odofin, Lagos); Murphy Osaro Omoruyi (Egor/Ikpoba-Okha, Edo);
Umezuruike Manuchim (Port Harcourt I, Rivers); Emeka Idu (Onitsha North/South, Anambra); Jesse Onuakalusi (Oshodi-Isolo, Lagos); Ifeanyi Uzokwe (Nnewi North/South/Ekwusigo, Anambra); Afam Ogene (Ogbaru, Anambra); and Kamilu Ado (Wudil/Garko, Kano).
In a related development, Leke Abejide, representing Yagba Federal Constituency, also defected from the ADC to the All Progressives Congress (APC).
The mass defections sparked concern among lawmakers, with some warning that increasing political realignments ahead of the 2027 general elections could further destabilise party structures.
The Speaker of the House acknowledged the defections and wished the lawmakers well in their new political parties, in line with parliamentary tradition.
The development is expected to reshape the balance of power among minority parties in the House, with the ADC likely to suffer a significant setback in its numerical strength.
Never miss a moment! Get the stories shaping Nigeria, delivered straight to your phone. Follow Peoplesdaily Newspaper on WhatsApp for breaking news, exclusive reports, and the headlines everyone will be talking about, before anyone else.
