The House of Representatives on Tuesday recorded a surge of defections as at least 17 legislators formally declared their departure from the African Democratic Congress (ADC) to the National Democratic Congress (NDC) during plenary, pointing to internal disputes within their former party.
The defecting lawmakers, drawn from Kano, Anambra, Lagos, Edo and Rivers states, presented separate letters on the floor of the House, linking their decision to what they described as “unresolved crises from the national to ward levels” in the ADC.
Among those who switched parties is Yusuf Umar Datti, representing Kura/Madobi/Garun Mallam Federal Constituency of Kano State, who stated that the persistent instability within the ADC had hindered his ability to effectively represent his constituents.
In the same vein, Harris Okonkwo, who represents Idemili North/Idemili South Federal Constituency of Anambra State, explained that the move followed “wide consultations with political stakeholders and constituents.”
Other lawmakers who defected from ADC to 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 listed among the defectors 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 confirmed his defection from the ADC to the All Progressives Congress (APC).
Responding to the wave of defections, some lawmakers raised concerns over the increasing pattern of political shifts ahead of the 2027 general elections, observing that party instability continues to be a major driver of defections in the National Assembly.
The Speaker acknowledged the letters and extended goodwill to the defecting lawmakers in their new political parties, in accordance with parliamentary convention.
The development is likely to reshape the balance of power among minority parties in the House, particularly impacting the ADC’s position in the lower chamber.
