11 Opposition Lawmakers Defect to APC and ADC Amid Political Realignments

By Folarin Adeyemi Aluko

The House of Representatives on Thursday witnessed a fresh wave of defections as six Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) lawmakers and five Labor Party (LP) members switched allegiance to rival parties, highlighting growing instability and realignments within Nigeria’s opposition ahead of the next electoral cycle.

The PDP lost Bitrus Kwamoti, Zakaria Nyampa, James Barka, Kobis Thinmu from Adamawa State, Mohammed Bargaja from Sokoto, and Midala Balami from Borno State to the All Progressives Congress (APC). Meanwhile, the LP lost Afam Ogene, Lilian Orogbu, and Peter Aniekwe from Anambra State, as well as Jessy Onuakalusi (Lagos) and Osaro Omoruyi (Edo), who all defected to the African Democratic Congress (ADC). Additionally, Peter Uzokwe, initially elected on the platform of the Young Progressives Party, also joined the ADC.

Deputy Speaker of the House, Benjamin Kalu, attributed the wave of defections to lingering internal crises within the opposition parties. “Some of our colleagues want to move to the APC. We have their letters here, but we cannot officially announce their defections in their absence,” he said, describing the ruling party as a “broad platform open to all Nigerians” and attributing its growing membership to confidence in its leadership and programmes.

The defections come amid broader political realignments across the country. Prominent opposition figures, including former Vice-President Atiku Abubakar and former Labor Party presidential candidate Peter Obi, have been linked to consultations aimed at forming coalition platforms ahead of the 2027 general elections. Observers suggest that the ADC is positioning itself as a potential vehicle for such alliances, offering an alternative to both the APC and the traditional opposition parties.

Political analysts say the uncertainty within the opposition — particularly the prolonged leadership disputes in the PDP and factional struggles in the LP — has created an environment that encourages lawmakers to seek more stable and promising platforms. The APC, already the ruling party, stands to benefit significantly from the inflow of legislators, consolidating its numerical advantage in the House of Representatives.

As more defections are expected in the coming weeks, the balance of power in the House remains fluid. Lawmakers and political observers alike are closely watching developments, as the reshuffling of party affiliations could significantly influence legislative priorities and strategies ahead of the next general election.

The latest round of defections underscores the dynamic nature of Nigeria’s political landscape, with parties recalibrating strategies, forging alliances, and positioning themselves in preparation for a highly competitive electoral season.