A major realignment is brewing in Nigerian politics as several prominent members of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) are set to defect to the African Democratic Congress (ADC). The move, expected to be formalized on January 23, 2026, at Eagle Square, Abuja, involves Governors Seyi Makinde, Alex Otti, Ahmadu Fintiri, Bala Mohammed, and the Zamfara State Governor, along with 18 Senators and several House of Representatives members.
Sources close to the matter reveal that the defectors are dissatisfied with the PDP’s inability to resolve its internal crises and present a cohesive opposition platform. The ADC has been engaging with disaffected PDP members, positioning itself as a more stable and ideologically coherent alternative.
The PDP is already grappling with the aftermath of several high-profile defections, including Governors Peter Mbah and Douye Diri, who joined the All Progressives Congress (APC). The party’s national secretariat has been under lock and key since October 2025, following a clash between rival factions.
The ADC’s national officer emphasized that the party is open to partnerships but prioritizes discipline and internal democracy. The move is seen as a significant boost for the ADC, which has been seeking to expand its influence ahead of the 2027 elections.
The PDP leadership has downplayed the possibility of mass defections, insisting the party remains viable despite its challenges. However, analysts warn that a large-scale defection could further weaken the opposition and alter the balance of forces in Nigerian politics.
The development comes as the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has denied recognition to the PDP’s rival factions, casting uncertainty over the party’s eligibility for the 2027 elections.
As the situation unfolds, the ADC is likely to benefit from the PDP’s internal strife, potentially emerging as a stronger opposition force. The move also underscores the fluid nature of Nigerian politics, where alliances and party affiliations are constantly shifting.
The implications of this defection are far-reaching, with potential consequences for the 2027 elections and the overall political landscape.
At the heart of the PDP’s crisis is the bitter feud between FCT Minister Nyesom Wike and Governor Seyi Makinde. The two influential politicians are backing rival factions within the party, with Wike supporting a faction opposed to Makinde’s leadership.
The feud has led to accusations and counter-accusations, particularly regarding the alleged N50 billion relief fund for the January 2024 Ibadan explosion victims. Former Ekiti State Governor Ayodele Fayose, a Wike ally, accused Makinde of receiving the N50 billion but not using it for the intended purpose.
Fayose claimed the funds were meant for explosion victims but were instead diverted for Makinde’s presidential ambitions. Makinde’s aide, Sulaimon Olanrewaju, dismissed Fayose’s allegations as baseless and challenged him to provide evidence.
The Oyo State PDP is indeed experiencing imbalance, with Makinde’s leadership being questioned. The APC has capitalized on this, accusing Makinde of corruption and mismanaging the relief funds. The party has vowed to expose more alleged wrongdoings by Makinde’s administration.
The controversy has sparked heated exchanges, with Fayose releasing documents purportedly showing the N50 billion allocation. Makinde, however, maintains that only N30 billion was released, and he refused to accept the remaining N20 billion due to demands for inducements.
As the drama unfolds, the PDP’s future hangs in the balance. The party’s inability to resolve its internal conflicts has emboldened its opponents and created an opportunity for the ADC to capitalize on its misfortune.
The outcome of this crisis will have significant implications for Nigerian politics, with the 2027 elections looming large. But the thing is One thing is, the PDP’s woes are far from over.
