TDA major political realignment appears to be underway in Nigeria as no fewer than 21 sitting members of the House of Representatives have defected from their respective parties to the African Democratic Congress (ADC), in what observers describe as a significant development ahead of the 2027 general elections.
The defections, which cut across major political parties including the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), All Progressives Congress (APC), Labour Party (LP), and the Young Progressives Party (YPP), signal what could be an emerging shift in Nigeria’s political landscape.
Political analysts say the movement reflects growing dissatisfaction within the existing party structures and could reshape alliances ahead of the next electoral cycle.
Wave of Defections Across Key States
The defections span multiple geopolitical zones, with notable concentrations in Sokoto, Kaduna, Anambra, and Lagos states, alongside isolated cases from other regions.
In Sokoto State, four lawmakers dumped the PDP for the ADC.
These include Abdussamad Dasuki (Kebbe/Tambuwal), Mani Maishinko Katami (Binji/Silame), Umar Yusuf Yabo (Yabo/Shagari), and Bashir Gorau (Goronyo/Gada).
Their collective exit is seen as a major blow to the PDP in the North-West.
Similarly, Kaduna State recorded one of the highest numbers of defections, with six lawmakers crossing over from both the APC and PDP to the ADC.
Among them are Mustapha Abdullahi (Ikara/Kubau), Umar Ajilo (Makarfi/Kudan), Mustapha Muhammad Yariman Damau (Ikara/Kubau), Engr. Suleiman Yahaya Richifa (Soba), Bello El-Rufai (Kaduna North), and Bashir Zubairu (Birnin Gwari/Giwa).
The inclusion of Bello El-Rufai, son of former Kaduna State Governor Nasir El-Rufai, has particularly drawn attention, as it underscores the depth of the political shift within influential political circles.
In the South-East, Anambra State witnessed a sweeping defection of six lawmakers, largely from the Labour Party.
These include George Ozodinobi (Njikoka/Anaocha/Dunukofia), Harris Okonkwo (Idemili North/South), Peter Uzokwe (YPP), Afam Ogene (Ogbaru), Peter Aniekwe, and Lilian Orogbu.
Observers say the movement in Anambra is particularly significant, given the Labour Party’s recent strength in the region.
In Lagos State, two lawmakers—Seyi Sowunmi (Ojo) and Jessey Onakalusi (Oshodi-Isolo II)—also left the Labour Party for the ADC, further indicating cracks within the party’s urban support base.
Other defections include Yaya Tongo from Gombe (PDP), Philip Agbese from Benue (APC), and Murphy Osaro from Edo (LP), completing the list of 21 lawmakers.
Breakdown of Defections
A closer look at the figures shows a fairly even distribution of defections across the major political parties:
- PDP → ADC: 6 members
- APC → ADC: 7 members
- LP → ADC: 7 members
- YPP → ADC: 1 member
This balanced spread suggests that the shift is not isolated to a single party crisis but reflects broader dissatisfaction across Nigeria’s political spectrum.
Implications for 2027 Elections
Political observers believe the mass defections could have far-reaching implications for the 2027 general elections.
The ADC, which has often been viewed as a smaller party, appears to be positioning itself as a viable third force capable of challenging the dominance of the APC and PDP.
Analysts argue that the entry of sitting lawmakers into the party significantly boosts its credibility, organizational capacity, and grassroots reach.
“These are not just ordinary politicians; they are sitting members of the National Assembly with established political structures.
“Their movement into ADC changes the conversation,” a political analyst noted.
The development may also influence voter perception, as defections often signal shifting alliances and emerging political trends.
Rising Internal Pressures Within Major Parties
The defections also point to internal challenges within Nigeria’s leading political parties.
For the PDP, which lost several members in Sokoto and Gombe, the exits may reflect ongoing struggles to maintain cohesion and relevance.
The APC, on the other hand, faces questions about internal unity, particularly in Kaduna and Benue states, where key figures have now switched allegiance.
The Labour Party had gained significant momentum in the last election cycle.
However, it appears to be experiencing internal strains, especially in Anambra and Lagos, where multiple lawmakers have now exited.
Observers say such movements often stem from a combination of factors, including disagreements over party leadership, candidate selection processes, and strategic positioning ahead of future elections.
ADC’s Growing Influence
The African Democratic Congress has welcomed the defectors, describing the development as a sign of growing confidence in the party’s vision.
In a statement, stakeholders within the party emphasized the need for unity and collective action toward what they described as national transformation.
The Non-Indigene Rivers State bloc under High Chief Ambassador Mike Oyiakhire also extended a welcome to the new members.
Oyiakhire urged them to work together toward strengthening the party and advancing its political objectives.
Party insiders say the ADC is actively building structures across states, leveraging the influence of new entrants to expand its reach.
Regional and Strategic Significance
The geographical spread of the defections is also noteworthy. With representation from the North-West, North-Central, South-East, and South-West, the ADC appears to be gaining a more balanced national presence.
In Sokoto and Kaduna, the defections strengthen the party’s foothold in the North-West, a region traditionally dominated by the APC and PDP.
In Anambra and Edo, the party gains ground in the South-East and South-South, regions with dynamic and competitive political landscapes.
Meanwhile, the Lagos defections suggest potential openings in Nigeria’s commercial capital, where political competition remains intense.
Possible Motivations Behind the Defections
While individual lawmakers have yet to publicly detail their reasons, analysts point to several possible factors driving the movement.
These include:
- Internal party disputes
- Lack of political advancement opportunities
- Strategic repositioning ahead of 2027
- Desire to align with emerging political platforms
Some observers also suggest that the ADC’s growing profile may be attracting politicians seeking alternative platforms outside the traditional APC-PDP dominance.
Reactions and What Comes Next
As of press time, official reactions from the affected parties have been limited.
Insiders, though, indicate that efforts may be underway to manage the fallout and prevent further defections.
Political watchers say the coming months will be critical in determining whether the ADC can sustain this momentum or whether the major parties will regain lost ground.
The National Assembly itself may also feel the impact, as shifting loyalties could influence legislative dynamics and alliances.
