The House of Representatives on Tuesday experienced a major political shake-up as no fewer than 17 lawmakers formally announced their defection from the African Democratic Congress (ADC) to the National Democratic Congress (NDC) during plenary. The lawmakers cited internal crises within the ADC as the reason for their departure.
The defecting legislators, drawn from Kano, Anambra, Lagos, Edo, and Rivers States, individually presented their resignation letters on the floor of the House. They attributed their decision to what they described as “unresolved crises from the national to ward levels” within their former party.
Among the defectors is Yusuf Umar Datti, representing Kura/Madobi/Garun Mallam Federal Constituency of Kano State, who said the persistent instability in the ADC had hindered his ability to effectively serve his constituents.
Also speaking, Harris Okonkwo, who represents Idemili North/Idemili South Federal Constituency of Anambra State, said the move followed “wide consultations with political stakeholders and constituents.”
Others 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).
Additional lawmakers on the list 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 separate development, Leke Abejide, representing Yagba Federal Constituency, also announced his defection from the ADC to the All Progressives Congress (APC).
Reacting to the mass defections, some lawmakers expressed concern over the rising trend of political realignments ahead of the 2027 general elections, noting that party instability continues to be a major driver of defections within the National Assembly.
The Speaker acknowledged the letters and wished the affected lawmakers well in their new political parties, in line with parliamentary tradition.
The development is expected to significantly alter the balance of power among minority parties in the House, particularly weakening the ADC’s influence in the lower chamber.
Elijah Adeyemi
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