By CHARLES CHIJIOKE
Former Adamawa North senator, Ishaku Abbo, has formally defected from the African Democratic Congress (ADC) to the Labour Party (LP), citing deepening uncertainty within his former party following a protracted leadership dispute.
In a statement released on Sunday, Abbo said the decision became necessary after recent developments at the Supreme Court of Nigeria, which nullified an earlier ruling that had maintained the status quo in the ADC’s internal crisis and instead ordered the matter back to the trial court for fresh determination.
“Following the leadership crises rocking the ADC at national and state level leaving all of us high on uncertainty, I have today joined the Labour Party alongside my supporters so we can contest elections in 2027,” he said.
Abbo stressed that his exit was driven by political considerations rather than animosity toward the party, noting that he remains committed to pursuing the aspirations of his supporters.
“I am leaving ADC not out of hate for the party but to pursue our political aspirations because I carry the dreams of many people,” he added.
The former lawmaker also disclosed that he has forgiven individuals who, in his words, “deliberately hurt and betrayed” him during his time in the party, even as he contributed to its growth.
He expressed appreciation to key political figures, including David Umahi, Nuhu Ribadu, and Ayo Fayose, for their encouragement despite being members of different political camps.
The development comes amid sustained turbulence within the ADC, where competing factions have battled for control, raising questions about the party’s cohesion ahead of the 2027 general elections. The Supreme Court’s intervention has effectively prolonged the uncertainty, potentially weakening the party’s ability to retain key figures and mobilise effectively.
Abbo’s defection to the Labour Party could signal a broader realignment, especially as politicians begin positioning for 2027. Analysts say such moves may strengthen LP’s growing profile while further eroding ADC’s stability if more defections follow.
