I Think ADC Is Dead’ — Akpabio Reacts As Defections Hit Party

Senate President Godswill Akpabio says he believes the African Democratic Congress (ADC) is “dead” following a wave of defections from the party.

Akpabio made the remark during Tuesday’s plenary while reading a resignation letter from Enyinnaya Abaribe, the Abia south senator, who formally announced his exit from the ADC.

Abaribe said he had joined the Labour Party with immediate effect, citing internal uncertainties within the ADC, including ongoing legal disputes.

“Given the uncertainties concerning the ADC party with regard to the multiple lawsuits and court judgements, I have today resigned from the ADC and joined the Labour Party effectively immediately,” Abaribe wrote.

He added that his decision was not a reflection of his relationship with members of the party.

“This has nothing to do with the leadership and members whom I have enjoyed and will continue to enjoy close and solid relationships with,” he said.

Reacting to the development, Akpabio urged lawmakers to adopt a more streamlined approach in announcing defections on the floor of the senate.

“All those defecting from ADC should just compile everything in one paper so that we don’t keep announcing. I think ADC is dead,” he said.

Responding to a query from a colleague on how often lawmakers could switch parties, the senate president said the constitution provides guidance on such matters.

“That’s why I said, let us compile all, so it doesn’t look like a daily ritual,” Akpabio said.

”If you are defecting from Labour, write the names of all of you. If you are going from ADC, write all of you. And if you are entering ADC, you do the same. It’s neater that way than reading one name at a time.”

The development comes amid a series of defections involving members of the national assembly.

During plenary at the house of representatives, 17 lawmakers also defected from the ADC to the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC).