The House of Representatives on Tuesday witnessed a major political shake up as no fewer than 17 lawmakers formally announced their defection from the African Democratic Congress to the National Democratic Congress during plenary.
The lawmakers cited internal crises and prolonged inility within the ADC as the main reason for their decision, describing the situation as unresolved from national to ward levels.
The defectors represent constituencies across Kano, Anambra, Lagos, Edo and Rivers States, and individually read their resignation letters on the floor of the House.
Among those who defected are Yusuf Umar Datti representing Kura Madobi Garun Mallam Federal Constituency of Kano State and Harris Okonkwo representing Idemili North Idemili South Federal Constituency of Anambra State.
Others include Sani Adamu of Minjibir Ungogo Kano, Thaddeus Attah of Eti Osa Lagos, George Ozodinobi of Njikoka Anaocha Dunukofia Anambra, and Lilian Obiageli of Awka North Awka South Anambra.
Also on the list are OluwaSeyi Sowunmi of Ojo Lagos, Peter Anekwe of Anambra East West, Zakari Umar Mukhtari of Tarauni Kano, George Olawande of Amuwo Odofin Lagos, and Murphy Osaro Omoruyi of Egor Ikpoba Okha Edo.
Others include Umezuruike Manuchim of Port Harcourt 1 Rivers, Emeka Idu of Onitsha North South Anambra, Jesse Onuakalusi of Oshodi Isolo Lagos, Ifeanyi Uzokwe of Nnewi North South Ekwusigo Anambra, Afam Ogene of Ogbaru Anambra, and Kamilu Ado of Wudil Garko Kano.
In a related development, Leke Abejide representing Yagba Federal Constituency also announced his departure from the ADC to the All Progressives Congress, further reshaping the political landscape in the lower chamber.
The wave of defections is expected to significantly alter the balance of power among minority parties in the House of Representatives, especially weakening the position of the ADC.
Lawmakers who spoke during the session expressed concern over the increasing trend of party switching, noting that internal party inility continues to drive political realignments ahead of the 2027 general elections.
The Speaker acknowledged the defections and wished the lawmakers well in their new political affiliations in line with parliamentary tradition.
Political observers say the development reflects broader inility within opposition parties as they struggle to maintain cohesion amid shifting alliances in the National Assembly.
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