The House of Representatives was on Tuesday stirred by a significant wave of defections, as at least 17 lawmakers formally announced their departure from the African Democratic Congress (ADC) to the National Democratic Congress (NDC) during plenary.
The lawmakers, drawn from Kano, Anambra, Lagos, Edo, and Rivers states, cited persistent internal disputes within the ADC as the primary reason for their exit. In separate letters read on the House floor, they pointed to “unresolved crises from the national to ward levels,” which they said had hindered effective political engagement and representation.
One of the defectors, Yusuf Umar Datti, who represents Kura/Madobi/Garun Mallam Federal Constituency in Kano State, explained that the ongoing instability within the ADC made it increasingly difficult for him to serve his constituents effectively.
Similarly, Harris Okonkwo, representing Idemili North/Idemili South Federal Constituency in Anambra State, said his decision followed extensive consultations with political stakeholders and constituents.
Other lawmakers who joined 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).
The mass defections have sparked concern among some lawmakers, who warned about the increasing trend of political realignments ahead of the 2027 general elections. They noted that internal party instability continues to be a major driver of defections within the National Assembly.
