Names of Eight federal lawmakers set to join ADC after Peter Obi’s defection

The defection of Peter Obi, presidential candidate of the Labour Party in the 2023 election, to the African Democratic Congress (ADC) has begun to strengthen the party’s presence in the south.

No fewer than eight federal lawmakers are reportedly set to formally defect to the ADC, barring any last-minute changes.

Obi joined the ADC in Enugu last week, calling on Nigerians and opposition groups to unite under a broad coalition to rescue the country from poverty, disunity and democratic decline.

Explaining his decision, Obi said his defection was guided by patriotism and national interest.

His words: “This decision is guided solely by patriotism and national interest. I now respectfully call on my political associates, the Obidient Movement and opposition leaders across the country to join this broad national coalition under the African Democratic Congress. History will not forgive silence in moments of national peril,” he said.

In a post on X, Obi said three serving senators and several members of the House of Representatives were present at his defection ceremony.

“Notable senators present included Enyinnaya Abaribe, Victor Umeh, Tony Nwoye, and Gilbert Nnaji,” he said.

Obi said other political figures and members of the National and State Sssemblies also attended the event.

During the ceremony, organisers announced that eight federal lawmakers, including three serving senators, had collectively defected to the ADC.

The remaining five lawmakers are members of the House of Representatives from Anambra state. They include Afamefuna Ogene, Oby Orogbu, Harris Okonkwo, Emeka Godwin and George Ozodinobi.

However, the defections are yet to be formally announced on the floor of both chambers of the National Assembly.