The Senator representing the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Distinguished Senator Ireti Heebah Kingibe, has formally joined the African Democratic Congress (ADC), marking a historic first for the party and Nigeria’s political landscape.
Kingibe announced her defection in a statement on Thursday, saying she officially registered as a member of the ADC on December 18, 2025, at the National Merit House, Maitama, Abuja.
“I took a historic step in my commitment to the people of the Federal Capital Territory and to the future of Nigeria,” the senator said.
With the move, Kingibe becomes the first serving and duly elected public office holder in Nigeria to officially join the ADC, as well as the only serving senator currently in the party.
“With this decision, I have become the first serving and duly elected public office holder in Nigeria to officially join the ADC, and the only serving Senator within the party,” she stated.
Describing the decision as intentional and values-driven, the senator said her entry into the ADC was guided by conviction and long-term strategic thinking.
“This move is deliberate, strategic, and driven by conviction,” Kingibe declared.
She explained that by joining the ADC, she automatically assumes leadership responsibility within the party’s structure in the FCT and at the national level, positioning herself as a coalition partner committed to building a credible alternative for governance.
“By joining the ADC, I automatically assume leadership responsibility within the party structure in the FCT and nationally, as a coalition partner committed to building a credible, people-centered alternative for governance,” she said.
According to her, the decision signals the beginning of a new political chapter anchored on unity, competence and purposeful leadership.
“This decision marks the beginning of a new chapter—one focused on unity, competence, and purposeful leadership,” she added.
Reflecting on her political career, Kingibe said her journey has consistently been guided by service, integrity and results, drawing from her background as a civil engineer and legislator.
“My political journey has always been guided by service, integrity, and results. As a civil engineer and legislator, I believe deeply in technical governance, evidence-based policymaking, and sustainable development—especially for infrastructure, housing, urban planning, and the unique needs of the Federal Capital Territory,” she said.
She noted that her defection strengthens the ADC in the FCT ahead of the February 2026 Area Council elections and positions the party as a growing political force ahead of the 2027 general elections.
“This development strengthens the ADC in the FCT ahead of the February 2026 Area Council elections and positions the party as a serious and growing force towards the 2027 general elections,” Kingibe said.
The senator further assured residents of the FCT that the move would enhance her capacity to advocate more effectively for their interests at the national level.
“More importantly, it enhances my capacity to advocate more forcefully for the rights, welfare, and aspirations of FCT residents on the national stage,” she stated.
Reaffirming her commitment to her constituents, Kingibe said she remains resolute in her duty to represent the FCT with courage and competence.
“I remain steadfast in my commitment to represent the FCT with courage, clarity, and competence,” she said.
She concluded by expressing optimism about the road ahead.
“The journey continues with renewed energy, broader collaboration, and a clear focus on the future,” Kingibe added.
