The House of Representatives on Tuesday witnessed a wave of defections as no fewer than 17 lawmakers formally announced their exit from the African Democratic Congress (ADC) to the National Democratic Congress (NDC), citing internal crises within the party.
The lawmakers, drawn from Kano, Anambra, Lagos, Edo, and Rivers states, read separate letters on the floor of the House, attributing their decisions to what they described as unresolved issues affecting the party from the national to the grassroots level.
Among the defectors is Yusuf Umar Datti, representing Kura/Madobi/Garun Mallam Federal Constituency of Kano State, who said the instability within the ADC had hindered effective representation of his constituents.
Similarly, Harris Okonkwo, representing Idemili North/Idemili South Federal Constituency of Anambra State, said his decision followed extensive consultations with political stakeholders and constituents.
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Other lawmakers who defected from the ADC to 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 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 announced his defection from the ADC to the All Progressives Congress (APC).
Some lawmakers expressed concern over the growing trend of political realignments ahead of the 2027 general elections, noting that internal party instability continues to drive defections within the National Assembly.
The Speaker of the House acknowledged the letters and wished the defecting lawmakers well in their new political parties, in line with parliamentary tradition.