By Dennis Okechukwu
Senate President Godswill Akpabio has described the African Democratic Congress (ADC) as “dead” following a fresh wave of defections by lawmakers in the National Assembly.
Speaking during plenary on Tuesday, Akpabio made the remark after several senators formally announced their exit from the ADC, citing internal crises and prolonged legal disputes. Among them was Victor Umeh, who defected to the Nigerian Democratic Congress (NDC).
In a light-hearted tone, Akpabio suggested that lawmakers should submit their defection notices collectively to avoid repeated announcements on the Senate floor. He also questioned the frequency of such political movements, joking that some legislators had switched parties multiple times within a single month.
The Senate President further highlighted the political journey of Enyinnaya Abaribe, noting his transitions from the All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA) to the ADC, and now to the Labour Party.
The remarks come amid a broader political realignment, with at least 16 members of the House of Representatives also leaving the ADC for the NDC. Lawmakers attributed their decisions to persistent leadership disputes and ongoing litigation within the party.
In his resignation letter, Umeh said the internal divisions within the ADC made continued membership untenable, adding that he remains committed to national development through his new political platform.