Nigeria’s political landscape shifted sharply in the Senate on Tuesday as three prominent lawmakers announced major party realignments, citing internal crises, factional disputes, and ideological alignment.
Victor Umeh, senator representing Anambra Central, formally defected from the African Democratic Congress (ADC) to the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) in a letter read on the floor of the Senate by President of the Senate, Godswill Akpabio.
Umeh said his decision followed wide consultations with his constituents and stakeholders, pointing to persistent leadership divisions within the ADC.
“I remain committed to making my contributions towards the development of our dear nation, but this time through the NDC,” he stated.
In a parallel move, Rufai Hanga, senator representing Kano Central, also exited the New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP) for the NDC, citing deep internal crises within his former party, including leadership disputes and conflicting directives that, according to him, had made effective representation difficult.
Hanga said his decision was taken after consultations with constituents and stakeholders, adding that the NDC better aligns with his commitment to good governance and democratic values.
“In view of the above, I respectfully request that this letter be accepted… as a formal notice of my defection,” he stated.
In a third development, Enyinnaya Abaribe announced his resignation from the ADC and his immediate move to the Labour Party, attributing his decision to unresolved leadership crises and legal disputes within the party.
“My decision to resign is effective immediately. Accordingly, I have joined the Labour Party,” Abaribe said.
The wave of defections underscores deepening instability within opposition parties, as lawmakers increasingly reposition ahead of shifting political alliances and emerging national realignments.
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