In a seismic shift within Nigeria's political arena, a leading figure from the South-East has dramatically exited the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), ending a membership spanning nearly three decades. Senator (Prince) Gilbert Emeka Nnaji has formally resigned and announced his move to the African Democratic Congress (ADC), setting the stage for a significant realignment as the country looks toward the 2027 general elections.
A Painful Departure After 27 Years of Loyalty
The senator communicated his decisive move in a resignation letter dated 26 December 2025. He addressed the letter to the PDP Chairman of Umuenwen Ward, Iji Nike, in the Enugu East Local Government Area of Enugu State. Nnaji, a former Chairman of the Senate Committee on Communications, described the decision as painful but absolutely necessary, stating that his continued association with the PDP had become untenable.
"This decision was not taken lightly," Nnaji emphasized, reflecting on his long years of service, loyalty, and sacrifice within the party's ranks. He indicated that extensive consultations with political associates and key stakeholders preceded his final choice to seek a new political direction.
PDP Labelled 'Irredeemable' as Core Values Erode
Central to Nnaji's defection is a scathing critique of the current state of the PDP. The senator argued that the party has fundamentally strayed from the foundational principles that once defined it. He recalled that the PDP was originally built on pillars of unity, justice, transparency, and patriotism.
"Sadly, the party has become irredeemable, making it impossible for me to continue as a member," Nnaji declared. He pointed to the severe erosion of internal democracy and shared values within the party as the primary reasons forcing him out. This stark assessment underscores a deep-seated disillusionment with one of Nigeria's major political institutions.
ADC Emerges as the New Platform for Principled Politics
Following his exit from the PDP, Senator Nnaji immediately announced his alignment with the African Democratic Congress (ADC). He characterized the ADC as a credible and viable alternative platform that resonates with his political ideals and vision for the nation.
"I have resolved to align with a party that reflects my commitment to national development and the pursuit of a Nigeria that truly works for its people," he stated. According to Nnaji, the ADC presents a renewed hope for principled leadership and inclusive governance, qualities he believes are essential as the country gears up for the 2027 polls.
Political Earthquake in Enugu and the South-East
Political analysts have been quick to label Nnaji's defection as a major development with far-reaching implications. Given his substantial influence within the PDP in Enugu State and his extensive experience in the National Assembly, his move is seen as a potential game-changer.
Observers believe his entry into the ADC could significantly bolster the party's presence and appeal in the South-East geopolitical zone. It signals a growing trend where established politicians are actively exploring alternatives beyond the traditional dominance of the PDP and the All Progressives Congress (APC). This defection is likely to trigger further realignments and strategic calculations among political actors in Enugu and across the region.
As of the time this report was compiled, the Peoples Democratic Party had not issued an official public response to Senator Nnaji's resignation. However, the political atmosphere is charged with anticipation, as watchers expect more defections and coalition-building activities in the months leading to the 2027 elections.
