In a significant development, prominent politicians in Delta State have defected from the Labour Party (LP) to the African Democratic Congress (ADC), aiming to challenge the dominant All Progressives Congress (APC) and reshape the state’s political landscape. The defectors include the LP’s 2023 gubernatorial candidate, Deacon Kawhariebie Ken Pela, as well as National Assembly, State House of Assembly, and local government candidates.
The defection ceremony, held in Asaba, drew a large and enthusiastic crowd from across the state. This move follows a similar development at the national level, where the LP’s presidential candidate, Peter Obi, recently defected to the ADC in Enugu. The ADC’s National Chief Whip, Elder Festus Igbinoba, represented the party’s National Chairman, David Mark, and welcomed the defectors, stating that Ken Pela’s move signals a broader trend of principled leaders aligning with the party.
According to Igbinoba, the ADC continues to attract leaders dedicated to discipline, institutional growth, and people-focused governance. Senator Andrew Uchendu, ADC Deputy National Chairman, noted that Ken Pela’s decision reflects the party’s growing appeal nationwide, providing Nigerians with credible leadership options rooted in integrity and service.
The Delta State Chairman of the ADC, Austin Okolie, described the gathering as historic, representing a major political realignment in the state and a signal to Nigeria that a new progressive coalition is taking shape ahead of the 2027 general elections. Ken Pela cited the need for politics anchored in integrity, service, and institutional reform, rather than personality-driven loyalty and empty rhetoric, as the reason for his defection.
He criticized the prevailing political culture that rewards familiarity over competence and lamented the increasing concentration of power, which undermines democratic pluralism. Ken Pela highlighted Nigeria’s broader challenges, including widespread insecurity and economic hardship, and called for a united front committed to restoring trust and hope. The declaration was formalized with Pela’s signed resignation from the LP and his commitment to the ADC’s constitution, values, and ideals.
The defection of these prominent politicians is expected to have significant implications for the political landscape in Delta State and potentially at the national level. As the 2027 general elections approach, the ADC’s growing influence and appeal may pose a challenge to the dominant APC and other parties. The move is seen as a strategic realignment of political forces, with a focus on promoting integrity, accountability, and responsible leadership in Nigerian politics.
