17 Reps Dumps ADC for NDC, One Joins APC

By Faith Chondol ABUJA

At least 17 members of Nigeria’s House of Representatives on Tuesday May 5th 2026 defected from the African Democratic Congress (ADC) to the National Democratic Congress (NDC), citing deep-rooted internal crises, while one lawmaker separately joined the All Progressives Congress (APC).

The defections announced during plenary, cut across Kano, Anambra, Lagos, Edo and Rivers states, with the affected lawmakers reading separate letters on the floor of the House. They attributed their exit to what they described as “unresolved crises from the national to ward levels” within the ADC.

Speaking on behalf of some of the defectors, Yusuf Umar Datti, representing Kura/Madobi/Garun Mallam Federal Constituency of Kano State, said lingering instability in the party had made it difficult for him to effectively serve his constituents. Similarly, Harris Okonkwo, who represents Idemili North/Idemili South Federal Constituency of Anambra State, said his decision followed wide consultations with political stakeholders and constituents.

Other lawmakers who moved to the NDC include Sani Adamu, Thaddeus Attah, George Ozodinobi, Lilian Obiageli, OluwaSeyi Sowunmi, Peter Anekwe, Zakari Umar Mukhtari, George Olawande, Murphy Osaro Omoruyi, Umezuruike Manuchim, Emeka Idu, Jesse Onuakalusi, Ifeanyi Uzokwe, Afam Ogene and Kamilu Ado.

In a related development, Leke Abejide, representing Yagba Federal Constituency, also announced his defection from the ADC to the APC.

The development has sparked concern among lawmakers over the growing wave of political realignments ahead of the 2027 general elections, with many pointing to internal party instability as a recurring trigger for defections in the National Assembly.

The Speaker acknowledged the defections and wished the lawmakers well in their new political parties, in line with parliamentary tradition. Observers say the mass movement is likely to alter the balance of power among minority parties in the House, weakening the ADC while strengthening the NDC’s foothold.