Nigeria’s Senate chamber was thrown into political drama after Senate President Godswill Akpabio declared that the African Democratic Congress (ADC) “is dead,” while announcing the defection of Senator Enyinnaya Abaribe from the party to the Labour Party.
The announcement came as Akpabio formally read Abaribe’s letter of defection on the floor of the upper legislative chamber, marking another high-profile realignment in Nigeria’s shifting political landscape.
Abaribe, who represents Abia South Senatorial District in Abia State, has long been a prominent figure in opposition politics, and his move to the Labour Party further strengthens the party’s growing presence in the legislature.
Akpabio’s remark — “I think ADC is dead” — drew attention in the chamber, underscoring the intensity of party rivalries and the deepening wave of defections reshaping political alliances ahead of future elections.
Political observers say the latest switch reflects broader instability within smaller parties, as lawmakers continue to reposition themselves within Nigeria’s evolving power structure.
