ABUJA — A member of the House of Representatives, Ifeanyi Uzokwe, and a chieftain of the African Democratic Congress, Oladimeji Fabiyi, have traded words over the recent wave of defections from the party.
The disagreement follows the exit of key political figures, including Peter Obi and Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, who left the ADC for the Nigeria Democratic Congress alongside several lawmakers, citing internal crises and multiple legal disputes within the party.
Speaking on Politics Today, Uzokwe alleged that the influence of former Vice President Atiku Abubakar played a significant role in their departure, claiming the party had effectively become dominated by a single figure.
He further argued that personal political ambitions and internal power struggles have continued to weaken opposition platforms in Nigeria.
However, Fabiyi dismissed the claims, accusing the defectors of lacking the resolve to confront challenges within the party. He argued that the issues cited were not sufficient justification for abandoning the platform, insisting that leadership demands resilience and commitment.
The ADC had earlier been adopted by an opposition coalition aiming to challenge President Bola Ahmed Tinubu ahead of the 2027 general elections. Prominent figures in the coalition included former ministers and top political stakeholders.
Despite initial momentum, the party has since been embroiled in internal disputes, legal battles, and allegations of external interference, contributing to the recent defections.
The ADC has also accused the ruling All Progressives Congress of undermining opposition efforts—an allegation the presidency has denied.
Political observers say the developments highlight ongoing realignments and tensions within Nigeria’s opposition landscape as the 2027 elections approach.
