Mass Exodus Hits ADC as Obi, Kwankwaso Exit Party, 18 Lawmakers Defect to NDC

A major political shake-up has rocked Nigeria’s opposition landscape following the defection of former presidential candidates Peter Obi and Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso from the African Democratic Congress (ADC) to the National Democratic Congress (NDC).

The dramatic exits triggered a fresh wave of defections in the National Assembly, with 17 members of the House of Representatives and one senator abandoning the ADC for the NDC and APC. The lawmakers cited unresolved internal crises, leadership disputes, and instability within the ADC as reasons for their departure.

The defections come amid ongoing coalition talks among opposition figures ahead of the 2027 general elections. Political analysts say the movement of Obi and Kwankwaso has significantly weakened the ADC, which recently boasted over 20 lawmakers in the House but has now lost most of its legislative strength.

Among the lawmakers who joined the NDC are representatives from Kano, Anambra, Lagos, Edo, Rivers, and Abia states. Meanwhile, Kogi lawmaker Leke Abejide defected to the ruling APC.

Speaking on the crisis, ADC spokesman Bolaji Abdullahi insisted the party remains strong despite the defections, describing those leaving as politicians loyal to individuals rather than party ideology. However, political observers believe the exits may further weaken opposition unity efforts against President Bola Tinubu ahead of the next presidential election.

The NDC leadership welcomed Obi and Kwankwaso, describing their arrival as a major boost to the party’s national relevance and grassroots appeal.