A member of the House of Representatives, Ifeanyi Uzokwe, and the National Deputy Financial Secretary of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), Oladimeji Fabiyi, have expressed opposing views over the recent wave of defections from the party ahead of the 2027 general elections.
The disagreement follows the exit of key political figures, including former presidential candidate Peter Obi and Rabiu Kwankwaso, alongside some members of the National Assembly, from the ADC to the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC). The defectors cited multiple court cases and internal challenges within the party as reasons for their decision.
Speaking on Politics Today on Channels Television, Uzokwe, who represents Nnewi North, Nnewi South, and Ekwusigo Federal Constituency, alleged that the influence of former Vice President Atiku Abubakar forced them out of the party.
According to him, “We left ADC because His Excellency Atiku Abubakar said the coalition was formed in his house and that ADC is his party, implying that no one could challenge him.”
Uzokwe further argued that Atiku’s political ambition had previously contributed to the crisis within the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).
However, Fabiyi dismissed these claims, accusing the defectors of lacking the resolve to confront internal challenges within the party. He specifically criticised Obi, alleging that the former Anambra State governor was unwilling to endure political pressure.
“Peter Obi is not someone who likes to face challenges. He is not ready to fight for the people but for himself,” Fabiyi said, insisting that neither Atiku nor internal party issues justified the defections.
In June 2025, an opposition coalition adopted the ADC as its platform to challenge President Bola Tinubu in the 2027 elections. The coalition attracted several high-profile politicians, including Rotimi Amaechi, Rauf Aregbesola, and David Mark.
Despite this momentum, the ADC has been plagued by internal disputes, legal battles, and leadership tussles, less than a year after the coalition’s formation.
The party has also accused the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) of undermining the opposition—an allegation the presidency has denied.
The ongoing crisis has contributed to the defection of prominent members, including Obi and Kwankwaso, as political realignments intensify ahead of the 2027 general elections.
