The defection of the former Labour Party (LP) presidential candidate, Peter Obi, to the African Democratic Congress (ADC) has set off a significant political shift in Delta State, prompting LP’s 2023 governorship candidate, Deacon Ken Pela, to lead a large contingent of party figures into the ADC.

Pela, alongside LP candidates for the National Assembly, Delta State House of Assembly, and various local government councils, formally joined the ADC on January 7 at a well-attended event in Asaba.

Receiving the new members, Delta State Chairman of the ADC, Austin Okolie, described the development as a landmark moment for the state’s political landscape.

“Today’s gathering is historic. It represents a major political realignment in Delta State and a bold signal to Nigeria that a new progressive coalition is taking shape ahead of the 2027 general elections,” Okolie said.

He noted that the attendance of national and zonal party leaders underscored the ADC’s expanding influence, adding that the party is growing at the grassroots while remaining aligned with its national objectives.

In his remarks, Pela said his move was motivated by the search for a value-driven political platform committed to service delivery and institutional reform.

“Delta State is richly endowed but weighed down by broken trust and political culture that rewards noise over substance. We need a politics anchored in responsibility and service. That is why I have chosen ADC, a platform that places values above individuals and judges governance by results, not rhetoric,” he said.

Pela also cited Nigeria’s worsening insecurity and economic hardship, noting that over 130 million Nigerians live in multidimensional poverty, and called for a united front to restore public trust and hope.

His defection was formalised with the presentation of his resignation letter from the LP and his pledge to uphold ADC’s constitution, values and ideals.

Receiving the defectors on behalf of the national leadership, ADC National Chief Whip, Elder Festus Igbinoba, representing the National Chairman, David Mark, described Pela’s move as part of a wider trend.

“This is a convergence of value. The ADC continues to attract leaders dedicated to discipline, institutional growth, and people-focused governance,” Igbinoba said, urging the new members to work collectively for electoral success.

Similarly, ADC Deputy National Chairman, Senator Andrew Uchendu, said Pela’s entry reflected the party’s growing national appeal.

The highlight of the event was the presentation of ADC membership cards to Pela and his supporters by the ADC Chairman of Jeremi Ward 2, marking their formal induction.

The ceremony was attended by prominent party leaders, including Chike Okogwu, National PWD Leader; Mabel Oboh, South-South Zonal Publicity Secretary; Ebilade Keefe, South-South Zonal Secretary; Dr Bright Honda, South-South Zonal Youth Leader; Mrs Joy Mena, Delta State Woman Leader; Faith Okolo; Lady Chinwe Ejido; Lauretta Onochie; and other party stakeholders. (THE NATION)