Senate President, Godswill Akpabio, on Tuesday joked that the African Democratic Congress was effectively dead following a fresh wave of defections that saw lawmakers move en masse to other political parties, including the Nigerian Democratic Congress and the Labour Party.

Akpabio made the remark while presiding over plenary, shortly after the Senate formally announced the defection of lawmakers, including Victor Umeh, who joined the NDC, citing internal crises and “unending litigation” within the ADC.

“Resignation from ADC and declaration for Labour Party. Maybe all those defecting from ADC should just compile everything in one paper and bring, so that we don’t keep announcing, announcing, announcing. Because I think ADC is dead,” Akpabio said, drawing reactions in the chamber.

He continued in a lighter tone, questioning the frequency of political defections by lawmakers.

He continued in a lighter tone, questioning the frequency of political defections by lawmakers.

“How many times can you defect in a month? Once. But some have done three times,” he laughed.

The Senate President suggested a more coordinated system for handling defections, adding that lawmakers should “compile” their movement lists rather than announce them individually on the floor.

“So that it doesn’t look like a daily ritual. If you are defecting from Labour, you write all of you. If you are moving from ADC, you write all of you. If you are entering NDC, you write all of you,” he added.,” he said.

SEVENTEEN members of the House of Representatives on Tuesday formally announced their exit from the African Democratic Congress (ADC) to the National Democratic Congress (NDC) during plenary, citing internal crises within their former party.

The defectors, who cut across Kano, Anambra, Lagos, Edo and Rivers states, read separate letters on the floor of the House, attributing their decision to what they described as “unresolved crises from the national to ward levels” in the ADC.

Among those who defected is Yusuf Umar Datti, representing Kura/Madobi/Garun Mallam Federal Constituency of Kano State, who said the lingering instability within the ADC had made it difficult to effectively serve his constituents.

Similarly, Harris Okonkwo, who represents Idemili North/Idemili South Federal Constituency of Anambra State, said the decision was taken after “wide consultations with political stakeholders and constituents.”

Among those who defected is Yusuf Umar Datti, representing Kura/Madobi/Garun Mallam Federal Constituency of Kano State, who said the lingering instability within the ADC had made it difficult to effectively serve his constituents.

Other lawmakers who moved 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).

Similarly, Harris Okonkwo, who represents Idemili North/Idemili South Federal Constituency of Anambra State, said the decision was taken after “wide consultations with political stakeholders and constituents.”

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).

Conversely, Leke Abejide, representing Yagba Federal Constituency, also announced his defection from the ADC to the All Progressives Congress (APC).

Dr. Chiogo Constance Ikokwu (Ugonecheora), a former Arise News anchor and aspirant for the Idemili North and South Federal Constituency in the House of Representatives, has officially moved to the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC).

In a statement titled “A Strategic Realignment for Purposeful Service,” Dr. Ikokwu announced her decision, describing it as a carefully considered move made under tight timelines as political parties across Nigeria prepare for primaries.

“I had to make a quick and tough decision to join the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) after careful reflection,” she stated. “With the level of uncertainty, shifting alliances, and ongoing realignments across the political space, it is important to find a platform that is stable, forward-looking, and aligned with the vision for meaningful engagement.”

Dr. Ikokwu acknowledged the challenges of the decision, noting that she hails from Anambra State, where recent political realignments are expected to have significant impact. She explained that key elements of the coalition she identifies with have now aligned with the NDC, making the transition both timely and necessary.

“Ultimately, my focus remains clear: to reach the destination where I can effectively serve the people,” she added. “This move is about positioning, ensuring that I am on a platform that offers the right atmosphere, strength, and opportunity needed to translate commitment into tangible service and impact for my constituency.”

The aspirant reaffirmed her commitment to accountable leadership, people-centered governance, and progress. She appealed for understanding and continued support from her supporters and fellow progressives as they advance with “renewed purpose and determination.”

Dr. Ikokwu concluded with her political mantra: “Politics for Public Good. Take Back Your Government.”

This development comes as political activities intensify nationwide ahead of the next general elections, with several politicians making strategic party switches in recent weeks.