High-profile realignments shake up the Owerri political scene
The African Democratic Congress (ADC) in Imo State has achieved a major political breakthrough following the formal defection of several high-ranking leaders from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and the Labour Party (LP).
The announcement was made on Thursday, January 8, 2026, by the State Publicity Secretary, Chief Macdonald Amadi. This wave of defections has consolidated the ADC‘s position as a rising force in the state’s political landscape, signaling a significant shift in allegiances ahead of the next election cycle.
The formal switch occurred during the ADC Imo State Mega Stakeholders’ Summit, held at the party’s secretariat in Owerri. The event was chaired by the former Governor of Imo State, Chief Achike Udenwa, and attended by other prominent figures including the immediate past governor, Chief Emeka Ihedioha. The presence of these veteran leaders underscored the growing perception of the ADC as a stable and credible platform for those dissatisfied with the internal crises currently plaguing the PDP and LP.
Among the notable leaders who joined the ADC are:
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Hon. Chief Mrs. Ifeyinwa Arodiogbo: The South-East Zonal Woman Leader of the PDP.
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Hon. Chief Innocent NwaDavid: The Imo State Chairman of the Labour Party.
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Hon. Dr. (Mrs.) Ngozi Njoku: A former Commissioner and a significant figure within the Obidient Movement.
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Chief Paul Mbadiwe: Son of the late legendary nationalist and patriot, Chief K.O. Mbadiwe.
Strategic fundraising and grassroots expansion
The stakeholders’ summit was not merely a ceremonial gathering; it also served as a major financial springboard for the party’s future operations. During the event, the Imo State chapter of the ADC raised a staggering ₦230 million. Former Governor Emeka Ihedioha urged members to view these contributions as essential for building a “winning political machine.” He emphasized that adequate resources are critical for effective mobilization and overcoming the structural challenges posed by the ruling party.
The State Chairman of the ADC, Prof. James Okoroma, provided an optimistic overview of the party’s growth. He disclosed that the ADC has successfully established its presence in all 305 electoral wards across the 27 local government areas of Imo State. This grassroots-first approach is intended to create a solid foundation that can withstand the pressures of the general election. Okoroma stated that the newly raised funds would be used to deepen this institutional presence and build a formidable structure.
Udenwa and Ihedioha rally for unity
During his address, Chief Achike Udenwa charged the new and old members to embrace “peace, unity, and discipline.” He noted that the caliber of Nigerians now joining the ADC is a testament to the party’s potential to defeat the All Progressives Congress (APC) at both the state and federal levels. Udenwa, who governed Imo from 1999 to 2007, stressed that collective responsibility is the most indispensable tool for achieving electoral victory.
Emeka Ihedioha, who recently integrated his Rebuild Imo Movement into the ADC, described the development as a “new chapter of purposeful organization.” While the merger has caused some internal friction with foundation members—leading to allegations of a “hijack” by some factions—the leadership at the summit remained focused on the broader goal of 2027. Ihedioha called on Imo indigenes in the diaspora and the business community to rally behind the party to ensure it has the moral and financial support needed to succeed.
The ADC‘s recent momentum in Imo reflects a national trend where the party is positioning itself as the “Third Force” in Nigerian politics. With the exit of key figures from the PDP and LP, the ADC is now under intense scrutiny to see if it can maintain this unity. For now, the successful summit and high-profile defections have sent a clear message that the political equilibrium in Owerri is rapidly changing.
