17 Lawmakers Dump ADC for NDC, One Joins APC

The House of Representatives was thrown into a fresh round of political realignments on Tuesday as no fewer than 17 lawmakers formally defected from the African Democratic Congress (ADC) to the National Democratic Congress (NDC), citing deep-rooted internal crises within their former party.

The defections, announced during plenary through separate letters, involved legislators from Kano, Anambra, Lagos, Edo, and Rivers states. The lawmakers blamed their exit on what they described as “unresolved crises from the national to ward levels,” which they said had hindered effective political participation and service delivery.

Among the defectors, Yusuf Umar Datti, representing Kura/Madobi/Garun Mallam Federal Constituency of Kano State, said the instability within the ADC had made governance difficult. Similarly, Harris Okonkwo, representing Idemili North/Idemili South Federal Constituency of Anambra State, noted that his decision followed “wide consultations with political stakeholders and constituents.”

Other lawmakers who joined 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); and OluwaSeyi Sowunmi (Ojo, Lagos).

Also part of the mass movement are 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); and Jesse Onuakalusi (Oshodi-Isolo, Lagos).

Others include 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 announced his defection from the ADC to the All Progressives Congress (APC).

The wave of defections has sparked concern among lawmakers, with some warning that increasing political instability within parties could intensify as the 2027 general elections approach.

The Speaker of the House acknowledged the defections and extended goodwill to the lawmakers in line with parliamentary tradition.

Analysts say the development could significantly reshape the balance of power among minority parties in the House, with the ADC expected to suffer a notable decline in influence in the lower chamber.