The political landscape in the South is witnessing a shake-up as former Labour Party presidential candidate, Peter Obi, officially joined the African Democratic Congress (ADC), with at least eight federal lawmakers reportedly set to follow suit.
Obi, who served as governor of Anambra State, formally defected to the ADC during a ceremony held in Enugu on Wednesday. In his remarks, he called on Nigerians and opposition leaders to unite under a broad coalition aimed at rescuing Nigeria from what he termed poverty, disunity, and democratic erosion.
Explaining his decision to dump the Labour Party, Obi stated that his move was a patriotic response to the country’s challenges and an urgent call to opposition forces.
“This decision is guided solely by patriotism and national interest. I now respectfully call on my political associates, the Obidient Movement, and opposition leaders across the country to join this broad national coalition under the African Democratic Congress. History will not forgive silence in moments of national peril,” he declared.
On his verified 𝕏 handle, Obi revealed that several political heavyweights, including senators and representatives, attended the defection ceremony.
“Notable senators present included Enyinnaya Abaribe, Victor Umeh, Tony Nwoye, and Gilbert Nnaji,” Obi wrote. Other prominent figures in attendance were High Chief Ben Obi, Chief Onyema Ugochukwu, Prof. Pat Utomi, Prof. Osita Ogbu, and Chief Ralph Nwosu.
According to Sunday Punch findings, the eight lawmakers aligning with Obi include three senators and five members of the House of Representatives from Anambra State who have left the Labour Party.
The five representatives are Afamefuna Ogene (Ogbaru Federal Constituency), Oby Orogbu (Awka North/Awka South), Harris Okonkwo (Idemili North/Idemili South), Emeka Godwin (Onitsha North/Onitsha South), and George Ozodinobi (Dunukofia/Njikoka/Anaocha).
Their defections, however, are yet to be officially announced on the floor of the National Assembly.
Commenting on the political realignment, the ADC National Publicity Secretary, Bolaji Abdullahi, told Sunday Punch that Obi’s entry into the party had significantly boosted its momentum ahead of the 2027 general elections.
He said, “Obi’s defection has given traction to the ADC, and we are expecting more quality politicians like him to join us. Others should make up their minds on time.
“We are expecting more lawmakers and other political bigwigs. Discussions are ongoing with them, and the engagements have been positive so far. We are expecting them in the next few weeks.”