A disagreement has erupted between a member of the House of Representatives, Ifeanyi Uzokwe, and the National Deputy Financial Secretary of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), Oladimeji Fabiyi, over the recent wave of defections from the party.
The political tension follows the exit of prominent figures such as former presidential candidates Peter Obi and Rabiu Kwankwaso, along with several lawmakers, who recently left the ADC for the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC). Some of the defectors cited internal disputes, ongoing court cases, and influence struggles within the party.
During a television interview, Uzokwe, who represents Nnewi North, Nnewi South, and Ekwusigo Federal Constituency, alleged that former Vice President Atiku Abubakar played a major role in pushing members out of the party. He claimed that Atiku’s influence and comments about the coalition contributed to internal dissatisfaction, adding that leadership struggles had weakened the broader opposition movement.
He further argued that Atiku’s political ambition contributed to past crises within the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), suggesting that similar dynamics were affecting the ADC coalition.
However, Fabiyi strongly disagreed with this narrative, blaming the defectors for lacking the willingness to confront political challenges. He dismissed claims that Atiku or court cases were responsible for the exits, insisting instead that personal decisions and political convenience drove the defections.
Fabiyi also criticised Peter Obi, arguing that some of the departing politicians were unwilling to engage in difficult political battles and preferred to step away rather than stay and resolve internal issues.
The ADC, which was adopted in June 2025 by a broad opposition coalition as a platform to challenge President Bola Tinubu in the 2027 elections, has recently been affected by internal disagreements and legal disputes.
The coalition includes several high-profile political figures such as Atiku Abubakar, Rotimi Amaechi, Rauf Aregbesola, and David Mark. However, internal tensions, court cases, and defections have continued to weaken its cohesion ahead of the next general elections.
The party has also accused the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) of attempting to destabilise the opposition, a claim the presidency has denied.
