Senate President Godswill Akpabio on Tuesday declared the African Democratic Congress (ADC) “dead” as he announced the defection of Senator Enyinnaya Abaribe from the party to the Labour Party (LP). Akpabio made the remark while reading Abaribe’s letter of defection during plenary. “I think ADC is dead,” he said, drawing laughter in the chamber.
Abaribe's Reason for Defection
Abaribe, who represents Abia South senatorial district, said his decision was based on legal disputes and internal crises within the party. He cited “ongoing legal uncertainties, multiple court cases and leadership crises” in the ADC, describing his exit as “a tough call”. The senator had joined the ADC in March alongside eight others as part of efforts to strengthen the opposition ahead of the 2027 general elections. Before that move, Abaribe was a member of the All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA).
ADC's Internal Challenges
The ADC has faced internal divisions, factional disputes and legal challenges in recent months, including court rulings affecting its leadership and state congresses. The party has also recorded a number of high-profile exits, including that of Peter Obi, a former presidential candidate of the Labour Party.
Political Realignments Ahead of 2027
Abaribe’s return to the Labour Party reflects ongoing political realignments ahead of the next election cycle. The ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) has welcomed divisions within opposition ranks, while critics have questioned the frequency of defections.
