The House of Representatives on Tuesday recorded a wave of defections as at least 17 lawmakers formally announced their exit from the African Democratic Congress (ADC) to the National Democratic Congress (NDC) during plenary, citing persistent internal crises within their former party.
The defectors, drawn from Kano, Anambra, Lagos, Edo and Rivers states, submitted separate letters on the floor of the House, explaining that unresolved disputes from the national level down to the ward level influenced their decision to leave the ADC.
Yusuf Umar Datti, who represents Kura/Madobi/Garun Mallam Federal Constituency of Kano State, said the ongoing instability within the party had hindered his ability to effectively serve his constituents.
Similarly, Harris Okonkwo, representing Idemili North/Idemili South Federal Constituency of Anambra State, stated that his defection followed extensive 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 among those who defected 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).
In a separate development, Leke Abejide, representing Yagba Federal Constituency, also announced his defection from the ADC to the All Progressives Congress (APC).
The development has sparked concern among some lawmakers over the increasing rate of political realignments ahead of the 2027 general elections, with party instability identified as a recurring trigger for such moves within the National Assembly.
The Speaker acknowledged the defection letters and extended goodwill to the affected lawmakers in line with parliamentary tradition.
The shift is expected to impact the balance of power among minority parties in the House, particularly weakening the ADC’s position in the lower chamber.
17 Lawmakers Dump ADC for NDC in House of Representatives Amid Party Crisis
