Olumide Akpata Joins ADC

Former Labour Party (LP) governorship candidate in the 2024 Edo State election, Olumide Akpata, has defected to the African Democratic Congress (ADC).

Akpata was officially welcomed into the party by the Edo State Chairman of the ADC, Kennedy Odion, in the presence of key political figures, including former Edo State governors John Odigie-Oyegun and Oserheimen Osunbor. Also at the event were former Senate Chief Whip Roland Owie, the lawmaker representing Egor/Ikpoba-Okha Federal Constituency, Murphy Omoruyi, and former Labour Party presidential candidate, Peter Obi.

After receiving his ADC membership card, Akpata said his decision was influenced by Obi’s earlier move to the party on December 31, 2025. He explained that he joined the ADC to actively contribute to its development and support its vision of building a new Nigeria.

He expressed gratitude to the party leadership for the warm reception and commended members of the Obidient Movement for their steadfastness and dedication.

Speaking at the event, Peter Obi reaffirmed his commitment to what he described as the struggle for a better Nigeria, despite alleged efforts to frustrate the movement.

“Our commitment to a new Nigeria is total, even though they are doing everything possible to stop us,” Obi said.

He stressed the need to restructure the country to serve all citizens rather than a select few and advocated shifting Nigeria’s economy from consumption-driven to production-focused.

Earlier, Edo ADC Chairman Kennedy Odion praised Obi’s consistency and reiterated the party’s dedication to national renewal.

Former governor John Odigie-Oyegun said the ADC was experiencing steady growth in both membership and influence, adding that Nigeria urgently needs transformative leadership.

Oserheimen Osunbor expressed optimism that the coalition led by Oyegun would position the ADC strongly ahead of the 2027 general elections. He referenced Oyegun’s role in the 2013 political coalition that led to the APC’s victory in 2015, suggesting a similar outcome could emerge in 2027.

Osunbor also alleged that the ruling party was preparing to manipulate the 2027 polls, pointing to resistance against real-time electronic transmission of election results. He warned Nigerians to remain vigilant, arguing that only those with plans to rig elections would oppose transparent electoral processes.