In a significant development, Mr Moshood Salvador, the 2023 Labour Party Senatorial candidate in Lagos West, has defected to the African Democratic Congress, ADC. Salvador, a former Chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, in Lagos and ex-chieftain of the All Progressives Congress, APC, made the move along with leaders and members of his group, Conscience Forum, in Surulere.

The defection coincided with the 25th anniversary celebration of Conscience Forum, during which the group reviewed its achievements and outlined plans for the future. According to Salvador, the decision to leave the Labour Party was due to its perceived lack of future prospects. He expressed confidence that the coalition of political parties, symbolized by the ADC, offered greater opportunities for progress.

Conscience Forum, which boasts over 400,000 members across Lagos State, is relocating to the ADC with its full structure. The move was unanimously endorsed by the forum’s state executives. Receiving Salvador, ADC National Secretary Rauf Aregbesola urged Nigerians to unite against the APC, citing the party’s repeated failures. Aregbesola emphasized the ADC’s commitment to prioritizing people’s welfare and building a people-friendly government.

The ADC Lagos Organising Secretary, Dr Mohammed Ogidi, welcomed the defections, stating that they brightened the party’s future. He underscored the party’s inclusive philosophy, welcoming Nigerians from all backgrounds, regardless of religion or ethnicity. Additionally, Chief John Uche, a former president of Ohanaeze Ndigbo in Lagos, pledged the support of the Ndigbo community.

The defection of Salvador and Conscience Forum is expected to bolster the ADC’s presence in Lagos State. As the political landscape continues to evolve, this move may have significant implications for the upcoming elections. With its growing membership and expanding coalition, the ADC is positioning itself as a viable alternative to the dominant parties. The development is likely to generate interest among Nigerians and international observers, as the country navigates its complex political terrain.