By Danjuma Amodu | March 12, 2026
Nine Nigerian senators have defected to the African Democratic Congress (ADC), marking a significant shift in the country’s political landscape. The senators, who previously represented various parties, cited internal crises and leadership disagreements as reasons for their departure.
The defectors include:
Aminu Waziri Tambuwal (Sokoto South, formerly PDP)
Enyinnaya Abaribe (Abia South, formerly APGA)
Binos Yaroe (Adamawa South, formerly PDP)
Victor Umeh (Anambra Central, formerly LP)
Tony Nwoye (Anambra North, formerly LP)
–Lawal Usman (Kaduna Central, formerly PDP)
Ogoshi Onawo (Nasarawa South, formerly PDP)
– Austin Akobundu (Abia Central, formerly PDP)
– Ireti Kingibe (Federal Capital Territory, formerly LP)
The Senate leadership has given Abaribe one week to reconsider his position, amid questions about whether his defection meets constitutional requirements. The ADC’s growing influence is seen as a challenge to the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) ahead of the 2027 general elections.
The party has attracted prominent opposition figures, including Atiku Abubakar and Peter Obi.
The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has revised the election timetable, with presidential and National Assembly elections scheduled for January 16, 2027.
