A total of 17 members of the House of Representatives have formally left the African Democratic Congress (ADC) for the Nigerian Democratic Congress (NDC), marking one of the latest shifts in Nigeria’s evolving political landscape.
The defections were announced on Tuesday, May 5, during plenary in the House of Representatives by the Deputy Speaker, Benjamin Kalu.
According to the lawmakers, their decision was driven by what they described as “unresolved crises” within the ADC, which they said had made continued participation in the party difficult.
The defectors include Yusuf Datti (Kura/Madobi/Garun Mallam, Kano) and Harris Okonkwo (Idemili North/Idemili South, Anambra).
Also among them are Sani Adamu (Minjibir/Ungogo, Kano), Thaddeus Attah (Eti-Osa, Lagos), and George Ozodinobi (Njikoka/Anaocha/Dunukofia, Anambra), who serves as Deputy Minority Whip.
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Others listed are Lilian Obiageli (Awka North/Awka South, Anambra), Oluwaseyi Sowunmi (Ojo, Lagos), and Peter Anekwe (Anambra East/Anambra West, Anambra).
The remaining lawmakers are Zakari Mukhtari (Tarauni, Kano), George Olawande (Amuwo Odofin, Lagos), Murphy Omroruyi (Egor/Ikpoba Okha, Edo), and Umezuruike Manuchim (Port Harcourt I, Rivers).
The list also includes Emeka Idu (Onitsha North/Onitsha South, Anambra), Jese Onuakalusi (Oshodi-Isolo, Lagos), Ifeanyi Uzokwe (Nnewi North/Nnewi South/Ekwusigo, Anambra), Afam Ogene (Ogbaru, Anambra), and Kamilu Ado (Wudil/Garko, Kano).
Their departure adds to a growing pattern of political movement away from the ADC, as the party continues to grapple with internal disagreements and structural tensions that have raised concerns among stakeholders about cohesion and stability.
In recent weeks, the NDC has also attracted high-profile political figures. Former presidential candidate Peter Obi and ex-Kano State governor Rabiu Kwankwaso were among those linked to the party’s emerging structure, in what observers describe as part of early realignments ahead of the 2027 general elections.
Political analysts say the wave of defections reflects a broader repositioning within the opposition space, as politicians and lawmakers seek platforms they believe offer greater stability and clearer direction ahead of the next election cycle.