By Arinzechi Chukwunonso
Nigeria’s political terrain is witnessing a major realignment as no fewer than 17 members of the House of Representatives have defected from the African Democratic Congress (ADC) to the Nigerian Democratic Congress (NDC), in a move that underscores shifting alliances ahead of the 2027 general elections.
The defections were formally announced during plenary at the House of Representatives of Nigeria on Tuesday, signaling a growing momentum for the relatively new opposition platform. Among those who switched allegiance are Yusuf Datti, Uchenna Okonkwo, Thaddeus Attah, Lilian Orogbu, and Afam Ogene, alongside several others.
In a related development, Leke Abejide also exited the ADC, but opted for the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), further highlighting the fluidity within Nigeria’s political space.
Momentum Builds For NDC
The lawmakers’ defection comes just days after prominent opposition figures, Peter Obi and Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, officially joined the NDC from the ADC. Their entry into the party has significantly boosted its profile and appears to be catalyzing a broader wave of political migration.
Both leaders were received by former Bayelsa State governor and NDC national leader, Seriake Dickson, who described the party as stable, united, and free from internal litigation—qualities he says distinguish it in Nigeria’s often fractious political environment.
Obi, Kwankwaso Cite Internal Crises
Explaining his departure from the ADC, Obi pointed to persistent internal disputes, legal battles, and what he described as external interference undermining party cohesion. He warned that Nigeria’s political climate is becoming increasingly hostile, with rising intimidation and division distracting from governance and national development.
Kwankwaso, on his part, urged Nigerians to align with the NDC, revealing that his political base has already begun mobilising support and registration into the party.
Realignments Ahead Of 2027
The latest wave of defections signals intensifying political recalibration as parties strategise for the next general elections. With the NDC gaining traction among lawmakers and high-profile politicians, analysts say the coming months could see even more shifts that may redefine the balance of power across party lines.
As Nigeria inches closer to 2027, the evolving alliances suggest a political contest that could be as unpredictable as it is competitive.
