The African Democratic Congress (ADC) has recorded major defections in Akwa Ibom and Kaduna states ahead of the 2027 general elections, with 31 chapter chairmen of the Labour Party in Akwa Ibom and more than 23,000 members from the All Progressives Congress (APC), Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), and Labour Party in Kaduna formally joining its ranks.
In Akwa Ibom State, all 31 Labour Party council chairmen announced their defection during the unveiling of the Obidients and ADC’s official party structures in Uyo on Saturday. The event, attended by former Anambra State governor and 2023 presidential candidate Peter Obi, attracted a large crowd of supporters.
In a statement, the ADC said:
“All Chapter-Chairmen (31) of the Labour Party in Akwa-Ibom have just declared for the ADC because of Peter Obi.
They did this without a dime for mobilisation, without threat or coercion, and without any immediate benefit in sight. This is what the real impact of leadership means.”
One of the defectors, speaking in a video circulated online, cited Obi’s leadership style as the driving force behind their decision.
“Mr Peter Obi possesses the capacity, competence, commitment and compassion to reverse the misgovernance and misfortune in our country.
We follow him not because he is perfect, but because his sincerity of purpose is endless. He has the vision to build a better Nigeria for all, irrespective of tribe, religion or social status,” he said.
Kaduna: 23,000 Members Join in Lere
In Kaduna State, the ADC also announced the defection of over 23,000 members in Zone 1 of Lere Local Government Area. The new entrants reportedly resigned from the APC, PDP, and Labour Party before declaring allegiance to the ADC.
In a statement signed by the ADC Coalition Publicity Secretary for Kaduna State, Darius Kurah, the party described the development as significant.
“A political realignment of great significance… over twenty-three thousand (23,000) members drawn from APC, PDP, and LP formally resigned their memberships and declared allegiance to the ADC,” the statement read.
The defectors were formally received by the Coalition Co-Chairman of ADC Kaduna State Chapter, Bashir Saidu, alongside the party’s National Vice Chairman for the North West, Ja’afar Sani.
Kurah added:
“This is a historic development for the ADC. The courage and foresight of the new members will strengthen our platform ahead of the 2027 general elections.”
Also speaking, the Secretary of the Kaduna State Membership Card Registration Committee, Hafsat Baba, assured the new members of equal standing within the party.
“We assure all new members of equal opportunities within the party and pledge that the ADC will continue to champion justice, inclusiveness, and people-centred governance across Kaduna State.”
The statement concluded:
“This massive defection marks a turning point in the political landscape of Lere LGA and further strengthens the growing popularity and acceptance of the ADC as the preferred alternative for credible leadership.”
