Senator Ireti Kingibe, representing the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) in the Nigerian Senate, has formally resigned from the Labour Party (LP) and declared her defection to the African Democratic Congress (ADC).
Addressing journalists in Abuja, Senator Kingibe described her departure from the Labour Party as a “calculated and deliberate political move,” stating that her official induction into the ADC would be marked with fanfare.
“I am totally and completely committed to the ADC,” she said. “As the senator representing the FCT, I cannot simply slip away and collect a party card during lunch break. I intend to do it with noise and celebration.”
Speaking on the evolving nature of the ADC and the coalition she is aligning with ahead of the 2027 general elections, Kingibe expressed cautious optimism, likening the party’s development to a child learning to walk.
“It’s still evolving,” she noted. “You don’t judge a crawling child for not being able to run. You wait and watch them grow. That’s the stage we’re in.”
When questioned about the constitutional implications of her defection, particularly the risk of losing her Senate seat, the senator cited the internal crisis within the Labour Party and the existence of two distinct factions as justification for her action.
“I urge you to read the constitution. The Labour Party currently has two clear factions. This aligns with the constitutional provision that allows a lawmaker to decamp without penalty where division exists within their party,” she asserted.
“Even INEC received two sets of candidates and election results from the party, although none were officially recognised. So, if I’m asked to remain in Labour Party, which faction should I stay with?”
Senator Kingibe maintained that her defection was fully compliant with constitutional guidelines and underscored her respect for due process.
“If the party were unified, I wouldn’t have had the constitutional grounds to decamp. But given the clear divisions, I am within my rights to join another political platform—and I have chosen the ADC.”
Her defection adds to the growing realignment of political forces ahead of the 2027 general elections, as opposition parties continue to court influential figures nationwide.
