Labour Senatorial Candidate Defects to ADC in Lagos

In a significant development, Mr. Moshood Salvador—who was the 2023 Labour Party senatorial candidate for Lagos West—has defected to the African Democratic Congress (ADC). Salvador, a former chairman of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) in Lagos and ex‑chieftain of the All Progressives Congress (APC), made the move together with leaders and members of his group, Conscience Forum, in Surulere. The defection was announced during the 25th‑anniversary celebration of Conscience Forum, when the organization reviewed its achievements and outlined future plans.

Salvador said the decision to leave the Labour Party stemmed from its perceived lack of future prospects. He expressed confidence that the coalition of political parties represented by the ADC offers greater opportunities for progress. Conscience Forum, which claims more than 400,000 members across Lagos State, is relocating its entire structure to the ADC, a shift 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 prioritising people’s welfare and building a people‑friendly government. ADC Lagos Organising Secretary Dr. Mohammed Ogidi welcomed the defections, noting that they brighten the party’s future and underscoring the party’s inclusive philosophy, which welcomes Nigerians of all religions and ethnicities. 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, a development likely to attract interest from Nigerians and international observers as the country navigates its complex political terrain.