ADC Breaks Silence on List of Governors, Lawmakers Set to Defect to Party

The African Democratic Congress (ADC) has reacted to reports circulating online about an alleged wave of defections into the party by top political office holders across the country.

The party dismissed claims that several serving governors, senators, and members of the House of Representatives are planning to dump their current parties for the ADC.

Over the past few days, a widely shared message on social media platforms suggested that major political figures were preparing to join the ADC as part of a major realignment ahead of the 2027 general elections. The message also claimed that the move would be publicly announced at a large political rally in Abuja.

The viral list mentioned five sitting governors, including Seyi Makinde of Oyo State, Alex Otti of Abia State, Ahmadu Fintiri of Adamawa State, Bala Mohammed of Bauchi State, and the governor of Zamfara State. It also alleged that no fewer than 18 senators and several federal lawmakers were involved.

However, the ADC has distanced itself from the report. A senior official of the party said there was no official knowledge of such plans.

Speaking on the matter, the party’s Deputy National Welfare Secretary, David Itopa, said the leadership had not received any communication regarding the alleged defections.

“Concerning this matter, we do not have any information, but the party is open for all well-meaning Nigerians to rescue the country from immediate ruin,” Itopa said.

He added that while the ADC continues to welcome new members, no arrangements had been made for any mass defection or rally as claimed online.

As the rumours around the ADC began to fade, political attention shifted to ongoing activities within the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP). The opposition party has intensified consultations with key national figures as it prepares for future elections.

On a television programme aired midweek, PDP South-South Chairman, Emmanuel Ogidi, disclosed that party leaders had begun meeting with influential Nigerians to strengthen internal unity and reposition the party.

According to Ogidi, the PDP had already held talks with former President Olusegun Obasanjo and former military ruler Ibrahim Babangida.

“So, we’re doing the rounds. We have already seen a former President, Olusegun Obasanjo, and a former President, IBB.

“It’s all about seeing those who are important in Nigeria to tell them that we are alive and we’re moving. I know you’re going to ask me about Obi. Yes, we also have plans to see Peter Obi.

“Even Atiku Abubakar, as the former vice president of the country, we are going to meet him. You see, PDP is the real face of democracy in Nigeria.”

Both Peter Obi and Atiku Abubakar have strong political ties to the PDP. Obi was Atiku’s running mate in the 2019 presidential election before leaving the party and contesting the 2023 polls under the Labour Party. He later aligned with the ADC-led opposition coalition.

Atiku, who was the PDP’s presidential candidate in 2023, has also identified with the broader opposition movement, further fuelling talks of possible alliances ahead of 2027.