Senate President Godswill Akpabio sparked reactions on Tuesday after joking that the African Democratic Congress appears to be “dead” following a new wave of defections by lawmakers in the National Assembly.
Akpabio made the remark during plenary after the Senate formally announced several defections, including that of Senator Victor Umeh, who moved to the Nigerian Democratic Congress citing internal crises and ongoing legal disputes within the ADC.
He said the repeated announcements of defections had become excessive, suggesting that lawmakers should present their political movements in a more coordinated manner rather than individually.
In a lighthearted tone, the Senate President said it was becoming difficult to keep track of how often lawmakers ce political parties, noting that some had defected multiple times within a short period.
He further suggested that senators switching parties should submit their resignation and defection letters collectively to reduce repetition on the Senate floor.
During the session, Akpabio also referenced the political movement of Senator Enyinnaya Abaribe, noting his transitions across different political platforms over the years.
The development comes amid ongoing political realignment within the National Assembly, where multiple lawmakers have recently left the African Democratic Congress for other parties including the Nigerian Democratic Congress and the Labour Party.
Senator Victor Umeh, in his resignation letter, attributed his departure to leadership disputes and prolonged litigation within the ADC, stating that he remains committed to national development through his new political platform.
Akpabio’s comments added a humorous tone to a politically tense atmosphere, as defections continue to reshape party strength within both chambers of the legislature.
Observers note that the recent movements reflect broader inility within opposition parties, as lawmakers align themselves ahead of future political contests.
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