By Ayo Ayodele
In a major realignment within Nigeria’s opposition politics, Hon. Afam Victor Ogene, Leader of the Labour Party (LP) Caucus in the House of Representatives, on Tuesday led members of the caucus to formally join the African Democratic Congress (ADC).
The defection took place at a well-attended political gathering in Enugu, Enugu State, where the lawmakers aligned themselves with Mr. Peter Obi, the former Labour Party presidential candidate in the 2023 general election, who recently joined the ADC. The event was broadcast live on Arise Television, drawing nationwide attention.
Hon. Ogene, who represents Ogbaru Federal Constituency of Anambra State, was joined by other LP lawmakers in the House of Representatives, signalling a significant shift that could further weaken the Labour Party’s parliamentary strength while boosting ADC’s profile ahead of future elections.
Political observers described the move as a strategic consolidation around Peter Obi’s political direction, especially among his core supporters and allies within the National Assembly.
Background: Peter Obi and the ADC
Peter Obi, former Governor of Anambra State and Labour Party’s presidential flagbearer in the 2023 election, officially joined the ADC earlier, citing the need for a broader, more stable political platform to pursue his vision of national unity, good governance, and economic productivity.
Obi’s decision followed months of internal crises within the Labour Party, including leadership disputes and factional disagreements that affected the party’s cohesion after the 2023 polls. Since his defection, several of his loyalists at both state and federal levels have openly declared their intention to align with him under the ADC platform.
Addressing supporters at previous engagements, Obi had emphasised that his political movement was “about Nigeria, not a party,” stressing that any platform capable of delivering competent leadership, accountability, and inclusive governance would be embraced.
Growing Momentum
The defection of Hon. Ogene and the LP House caucus members is seen as one of the most significant follow-ups to Obi’s move to ADC, reinforcing speculation that more elected officials may soon follow.
Analysts say the Enugu event underscores ADC’s growing appeal as a rallying point for reform-minded politicians and could reshape opposition politics ahead of the 2027 general elections.
As the event continues to draw reactions nationwide, attention is now focused on how the Labour Party leadership will respond and whether the ADC can translate the momentum into a formidable national political structure.