In a significant political shift, over 10,000 members of the Labour Party (LP) in Kaduna State have defected to the African Democratic Congress (ADC). The mass defection was announced during a rally held in Kaduna on Friday, where the former LP members cited a lack of internal democracy and poor leadership as reasons for their decision.
The decampees, led by former LP state chairman Alhaji Musa Ibrahim, were formally received by the ADC National Chairman, Ralph Nwosu, and Kaduna State ADC leaders. Ibrahim, while addressing the crowd, expressed confidence in the ADC’s vision and its commitment to good governance.
“We have left the Labour Party because it no longer represents the ideals we stand for. The ADC, with its clear vision and inclusive policies, offers a better platform to serve the people of Kaduna and Nigeria at large,” Ibrahim stated.
The ADC National Chairman welcomed the new members, describing the defection as a testament to the party’s growing influence and credibility. “This is a new dawn for the ADC in Kaduna. With these new members, we are poised to make a significant impact in the upcoming elections and bring about the change our people deserve,” Nwosu said.
The defection is seen as a major boost for the ADC, which has been working to strengthen its presence in northern Nigeria. Political analysts suggest that the move could reshape the political landscape in Kaduna, particularly as the state prepares for the 2027 general elections.
The Labour Party, however, has downplayed the defection, with its spokesperson describing it as the exit of “a few disgruntled elements.” The party insists it remains strong and focused on its mission to provide an alternative to the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) and the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).
The rally, which drew thousands of supporters, ended with a call for unity and a promise by the ADC to prioritize youth empowerment, education, and infrastructure development in Kaduna State.