Political Shake-Up: Eight Lawmakers Set To Join ADC Following Obi’s Defection

The political scene in the South is undergoing a major shift following the official defection of former Labour Party presidential candidate Peter Obi to the African Democratic Congress (ADC), with reports indicating that at least eight federal lawmakers are preparing to follow his lead.....KINDLY READ THE FULL STORY HERE▶

The former Anambra State governor formally joined the ADC at a ceremony held in Enugu on Wednesday, where he urged Nigerians and opposition figures to rally behind a broad-based coalition aimed at addressing poverty, national disunity, and the erosion of democratic values.

Explaining his exit from the Labour Party, Obi said his decision was driven by patriotism and a sense of urgency over the country’s challenges, calling on opposition forces to act decisively.

“This decision is guided solely by patriotism and the national interest. I therefore call on my political associates, members of the Obidient Movement, and opposition leaders across the country to unite under this broad national coalition on the platform of the African Democratic Congress. History will not forgive silence at a time like this,” he said.

In a post on his verified account, Obi disclosed that several prominent political figures, including senators and members of the House of Representatives, attended the defection event. Among the senators present were Enyinnaya Abaribe, Victor Umeh, Tony Nwoye, and Gilbert Nnaji. Other notable attendees included High Chief Ben Obi, Chief Onyema Ugochukwu, Prof. Pat Utomi, Prof. Osita Ogbu, and ADC National Chairman, Chief Ralph Nwosu.

Findings by Sunday Punch revealed that the eight lawmakers expected to align with Obi include three senators and five members of the House of Representatives from Anambra State who recently left the Labour Party.

The House members reportedly involved are Afamefuna Ogene (Ogbaru), Oby Orogbu (Awka North/Awka South), Harris Okonkwo (Idemili North/Idemili South), Emeka Godwin (Onitsha North/Onitsha South), and George Ozodinobi (Dunukofia/Njikoka/Anaocha). Their defections, however, are yet to be formally announced on the floor of the National Assembly.

Reacting to the developments, ADC National Publicity Secretary Bolaji Abdullahi said Obi’s entry into the party had injected fresh momentum ahead of the 2027 general elections.

“Peter Obi’s defection has given the ADC significant traction, and we expect more high-calibre politicians to join us,” Abdullahi said. “Discussions are ongoing with several lawmakers and political leaders, and the engagements so far have been very encouraging. We anticipate more defections in the coming weeks.