Former Imo State governor and ex–Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Emeka Ihedioha, has formally joined the African Democratic Congress (ADC), marking a new chapter in his political journey.
Ihedioha completed his registration on Monday at Mbutu Ward in Aboh-Mbaise Local Government Area of Imo State, where he was issued ADC membership card number 001.
The exercise was supervised by the party’s ward secretary, Obinna Opara, while the ward chairman, Alex Ahamuefula, formally presented the membership card to him.
The registration attracted party leaders, stakeholders, and community representatives, underscoring the political significance of Ihedioha’s defection.
The former governor had exited the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in April 2024 and later announced in July 2025 that the ADC had become his preferred political platform alongside his supporters.
Speaking after the exercise, Ihedioha said his decision to align with the ADC was intentional and rooted in shared values.
According to him, the party’s emphasis on accountability, service, and clearly defined principles informed his move.
He argued that both Nigeria and Imo State are in urgent need of leadership that places public interest above personal ambition and responds directly to the needs of the people.
“Our people desire leadership that listens, serves, and places the common good ahead of self-interest,” Ihedioha said, adding that he is confident the ADC offers a credible platform to advance such ideals.
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He also explained that registering at the ward level was a deliberate statement of his commitment to grassroots-driven politics.
Several national party officials were present at the event, including Bon Unachukwu, ADC National Vice Chairman (South-East), Maigari Kasimu, Deputy Diaspora Coordinator, and Uko Nkole, Coordinator of the Former Legislators’ Forum.
Unachukwu described Ihedioha’s entry into the party as a major boost for the ADC, particularly in the South-East, noting that the party was pleased to welcome a former governor with extensive legislative and executive experience.
At the state level, the Imo ADC Chairman, James Okoroma, led members of the state executive committee to receive Ihedioha.
Okoroma said the defection would significantly strengthen the party’s structure and prospects in Imo State.