Senator Tony Nwoye, representing Anambra North Senatorial District, has resigned from the African Democratic Congress (ADC) and joined the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC), marking another major setback for the ADC. The defection was announced during Wednesday's plenary on May 6, as Senate President Godswill Akpabio read Nwoye's letter on the Senate floor.
Defection Letter Read in Senate
In his correspondence, Nwoye confirmed his departure from the ADC and his decision to join the NDC, citing ongoing internal challenges within his former party. He wrote: "I write to formally notify you of my resignation from the African Democratic Congress, ADC, and my intention to defect to the Nigerian Democratic Congress, NDC."
Internal Crisis and Litigations Blamed
The senator attributed his exit to persistent divisions within the ADC, as well as legal disputes that have affected the party's cohesion. He noted that "internal divisions and the ongoing multiple litigations at the Federal High Court" played a key role in his decision. Nwoye further explained that a recent court ruling had undermined the stability of the party's coalition structure, making it increasingly difficult for it to function effectively.
ADC: Wave of Defections Gathers Momentum
Nwoye's move follows closely on the heels of Senator Victor Umeh's defection from the ADC to the NDC, citing similar concerns over internal disagreements and litigations. In a related development, Senator Rufai Hanga of Kano Central also joined the NDC from the New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP), pointing to factional disputes within his former party.
Senate Composition Shifts
The latest defections have strengthened the NDC's presence in the Senate, bringing its total number of lawmakers to four. Current party representation in the upper chamber stands at 87 for the All Progressives Congress (APC), seven for the ADC, four for the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), four for the NDC, and one seat each for the All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA), Accord Party, and Labour Party. The NNPP presently has no representation in the Senate.
Vacant Seats Remain
The Senate continues to operate with vacant seats following the deaths of Senators Godiya Akwashiki, Barinada Mpigi, and Okey Ezea. Additionally, Jimoh Ibrahim vacated his seat following his appointment as Nigeria's Permanent Representative and Ambassador Plenipotentiary to the United Nations. The ongoing wave of defections is seen as part of broader political realignments ahead of the 2027 general elections, with parties and key actors repositioning for influence in the evolving political landscape.
