Senator Enyinnaya Abaribe Dumps ADC for Labour Party Ahead of 2027

The Senator representing Abia South, Enyinnaya Abaribe, has officially defected from the African Democratic Congress (ADC) to the Labour Party (LP). This move, confirmed on Tuesday, May 5, 2026, marks his third party switch in recent years, following his earlier transition from APGA to the ADC in March 2026.

Abaribe described the decision as a "tough call," but one necessitated by the need to align with a platform that shares his commitment to social justice and the urgent rescue of the Nigerian state. Addressing his supporters on his social media handles, he noted that the persistent internal leadership struggles within the ADC—which have pitted factions led by David Mark and Nafiu Bala against each other—made it increasingly difficult for him to focus on his legislative duties and the aspirations of his constituents in Abia South.

The defection is a significant boost for the Labour Party, which has been undergoing its own internal restructuring under new leadership. By securing a political heavyweight like Abaribe, the LP effectively strengthens its presence in the 10th Senate and reaffirms its position as a primary destination for opposition leaders who have grown disillusioned with the crisis-ridden ADC.

Labour Party welcomed him as a "principled patriot" who brings invaluable legislative experience to the fold. Meanwhile, the ADC has expressed disappointment, describing the move as premature given the ongoing efforts to resolve the party’s leadership impasse.

Do you think Senator Abaribe's move to the Labour Party will help stabilize the party’s influence in the South-East, or is this just another case of political musical chairs ahead of 2027? Share your comments below!

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