Akpabio Mocks ADC Collapse as Lawmakers Defect in Droves

Akpabio Mocks ADC Collapse as Lawmakers Defect in Droves

Senate President Godswill Akpabio has sparked fresh political debate after declaring the African Democratic Congress (ADC) “dead,” following a wave of high-profile defections in Nigeria’s National Assembly.

Speaking during plenary, Akpabio reacted to the growing list of lawmakers abandoning the ADC for other parties, including the National Democratic Congress (NDC) and the Labour Party Nigeria. Among the defectors is Victor Umeh, who formally resigned from the ADC, citing internal party crisis and “unending litigation.”

“Maybe all those defecting from ADC should just compile everything in one paper and bring it… because I think ADC is dead,” Akpabio said, drawing laughter and reactions from lawmakers.

He also mocked the frequency of party switching, questioning the trend of repeated defections within short periods. “How many times can you defect in a month? Once. But some have done three times,” he joked, suggesting a more coordinated system where lawmakers submit bulk defection notices instead of individual announcements.

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Akpabio further highlighted the case of Enyinnaya Abaribe, noting his movement from the All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA) to ADC, and now to the Labour Party. The remark underscored a growing pattern of political realignment in Nigeria, as politicians shift alliances ahead of future elections.

The crisis within the ADC extends beyond the Senate. In the House of Representatives, no fewer than 16 lawmakers have also defected to the NDC and Labour Party. Those affected include Yusuf Datti, Uchenna Okonkwo, Thaddeus Attah, George Ozodinobi, and Lilian Orogbu, reflecting deepening instability within the party.

In his resignation letter, Umeh stressed that ongoing divisions and court battles made his continued stay in the ADC untenable. “I remain committed to making my contributions towards the development of our dear nation, but this time through the NDC,” he wrote.

Political observers say the wave of defections highlights leadership struggles in ADC, lack of internal cohesion, and uncertainty over the party’s future. The development is seen as part of a broader Nigeria political realignment ahead of 2027 elections, with lawmakers repositioning for stronger platforms.

Although the ADC leadership has yet to issue an official response, analysts warn that continued defections could significantly weaken the party’s national relevance and reshape the balance of power in the National Assembly.

Akpabio Mocks ADC Collapse as Lawmakers Defect in Droves