By Our Correspondent

National News – Senate President Godswill Akpabio on Tuesday stirred reactions at the National Assembly in Abuja after declaring that the African Democratic Congress (ADC) was “effectively dead.”

His comment followed a wave of defections by lawmakers who moved to other parties, including the Labour Party and the Nigerian Democratic Congress (NDC), citing internal crises and unresolved disputes within the ADC.

The development occurred during plenary, where Akpabio presided over the formal announcement of defections.

Among those who switched allegiance was Victor Umeh, who moved to the NDC.

In his resignation letter, Umeh explained that persistent leadership divisions and ongoing litigation made it difficult to remain in the ADC.

Similarly, Enyinnaya Abaribe was noted to have transitioned from the All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA) to ADC and now to the Labour Party.

Akpabio, reacting humorously, questioned the frequency of defections, asking how lawmakers could switch parties multiple times within a short period.

He suggested a more organized approach where defecting members would submit their moves collectively rather than making repeated announcements during plenary sessions.

According to him, such a system would reduce disruptions and make proceedings more efficient.

The wave of defections extended beyond the Senate, as at least 16 members of the House of Representatives also dumped the ADC for the NDC.

Lawmakers including Yusuf Datti, Uchenna Okonkwo, Thaddeus Attah, George Ozodinobi, and Lilian Orogbu were among those who changed party affiliations.

The trend reflects a broader political realignment ahead of future elections.

Observers say the defections highlight growing instability within the ADC and could reshape party strength in the National Assembly.

Many lawmakers cited internal conflicts, lack of cohesion, and prolonged legal battles as reasons for their exit.

As political alliances shift, analysts believe the coming months may see further realignments across Nigeria’s political landscape.