ADC Chieftain Reacts to Former Anambra Deputy Speaker's Defection from APGA
Ambassador Ikebunwa Lotanna, a prominent chieftain of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) and a frontline House of Representatives aspirant for Nnewi North, Nnewi South, and Ekwusigo Federal Constituency in the 2027 general election, has officially welcomed the defection of Rt. Hon. Engr. Chukwudi Orizu from the All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA). This political shift, occurring in Nnewi, Anambra State, marks a significant development as the 2027 elections approach, with Orizu bringing hundreds of his supporters to the ADC.
Background of the Defection
Rt. Hon. Engr. Chukwudi Orizu, a former Deputy Speaker of the Anambra State House of Assembly and son of Nnewi monarch HRH Igwe Kenneth Orizu, recently joined the ADC, citing a belief in the party's stronger chances of winning key positions, including the presidency. He attributed his decision to the influence of ADC stakeholders, such as Amb. Ikebunwa, and noted a growing influx of politicians from APGA and other parties into the ADC, which he described as a sign of the party's rising appeal.
Ikebunwa's Perspective on Political Shifts
In an interview, Amb. Ikebunwa linked the wave of defections to widespread dissatisfaction with long-standing political parties like the APC and PDP, emphasizing that many Nigerians are seeking credible alternatives. He stated, "We in the ADC are proud and happy to receive members from other major political parties in Nigeria. I believe their defection was a result of the kind of leadership our leaders, like Mr. Peter Obi, Atiku Abubakar, and people like us, provide at different levels." He criticized the APC and PDP for failing Nigeria due to poor leadership quality and highlighted the ADC's commitment to fostering strong and credible governance.
Impact on ADC's Prospects
Amb. Ikebunwa described Hon. Engr. Chukwudi Orizu as an astute politician and respected leader with proven capacity and extensive experience. He asserted that Orizu's entry into the ADC is a major boost that will strengthen the party's structure and improve its chances in the forthcoming 2027 general elections. According to Ikebunwa, Orizu's political network, experience, and influence will benefit the party not only in Nnewi but across Anambra State and beyond, reinforcing the ADC's seriousness and commitment to national transformation.
Related Political Developments
In a related context, Amb. Ikebunwa dismissed the South-East former governors' endorsement of President Bola Tinubu, arguing that it reflects personal interests rather than the collective wishes of South-East citizens. He described the ex-governors as moneybags and maintained that their endorsement does not align with the region's political stance, further emphasizing the ADC's role as a viable alternative in the evolving political landscape.
This defection underscores a broader trend of political realignment in Nigeria, as parties like the ADC position themselves to capitalize on voter discontent ahead of the 2027 elections, with key figures like Orizu and Ikebunwa playing pivotal roles in shaping the future of Anambra's and Nigeria's political dynamics.
