Sen. Ireti Kingibe officially defects to ADC from LP

Senator Ireti Kingibe, who represents the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), has officially left the Labour Party (LP) for the African Democratic Congress (ADC), a move analysts believe could change the political landscape in the nation’s capital ahead of the forthcoming area council elections and the 2027 general polls.

The defection was announced at a well-attended ceremony held at Merit House, Abuja, with top leaders of the ADC, party stakeholders and supporters present. Party officials described the event as the start of a new political drive in the FCT.

Speaking at the gathering, Senator Kingibe said her decision to join the ADC was based on the party’s growing influence, strong organisational structure and what she described as a people-focused approach to governance.

She expressed confidence that the ADC provides a credible platform to advance the interests of residents of the FCT.

“I have chosen to join the African Democratic Congress because it is a giant in the making. In the FCT, ADC is not just present; it is strong, vibrant and growing from strength to strength,” she stated to loud applause.

Known for her legislative activism and grassroots engagement, Kingibe said she aligned with ADC because it prioritizes inclusive development and responsive leadership.

Welcoming her into the party, ADC Youth Leader Comrade Balarabe Rufai described her defection as a landmark gain.

“We have caught a big fish. Senator Ireti Kingibe’s entry consolidates the coalition we have been building. With the FCT council elections approaching, ADC is fully prepared to challenge the dominance of the APC,” Rufai said.

The party’s Deputy Organising Secretary, Alhaji Atiku Saleh, formally presented Kingibe with her ADC membership card, calling the moment a turning point for the party.

“ADC is one family. By God’s grace, come 2027, we will emerge victorious. Senator Kingibe’s decision is a clear endorsement of our credibility and our resolve to offer Nigerians a viable alternative to the ruling APC,” Saleh added.

The event drew national party leaders, including former National Chairman Chief Ralphs Okorie Nwosu, National Treasurer Dr. Mani Ibrahim Mani, Deputy National Secretary Hon. Hauwa Yusuf, and several others.

Political observers note that Kingibe’s defection represents a major setback for the Labour Party in the FCT and could significantly alter electoral calculations, particularly as local council elections approach. Analysts also see the move as part of a broader realignment in Nigeria’s political landscape, where performance, ideology, and grassroots appeal increasingly drive political choices.

As preparations intensify for the 2027 general elections, ADC’s growing profile, now bolstered by a sitting senator signals the party’s ambition to move beyond the fringes and compete seriously on the national stage.

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