In a significant political realignment in Edo State, Murphy Omoruyi, the sole remaining Labour Party (LP) representative in the state's delegation to the House of Representatives, has officially switched allegiance to the African Democratic Congress (ADC).
Constituency Pressure and Party Crises Trigger Move
The lawmaker, who represents the Egor/Ikpoba-Okha Federal Constituency, announced his defection to journalists in Benin City on Tuesday, 6 January 2026. Omoruyi framed his decision as a direct answer to the urgent demands of his people, who he said are suffering under poor governance.
"Our constituents are crying. They are on our neck," Omoruyi stated. He pointed to a lack of good roads and a difficult economic environment created by the current administration. "As a Representative of the people, I decided to pitch a tent with our people. They want to w4 this government, and I have to join them to actualise the dream," he explained.
He revealed that his steadfastness in the LP had previously earned him the moniker "The Last Man Standing." However, he declared that the "intractable crises rocking the Labour Party" had ultimately made it impossible for him to remain.
Formal Resignation and New Allegiance
The defection process began with Omoruyi submitting his formal resignation letter to his ward chairman in Egor Local Government Area on 30 December 2025. This resignation was duly accepted, clearing the path for his move.
Upon joining the ADC, the federal lawmaker pledged his full commitment to the party's leadership and its coalition partners. He vowed to use his new platform to advance good governance and strengthen Nigeria's democratic institutions. "Together, we will ensure that the voices of ordinary Nigerians are heard and respected," Omoruyi promised.
Implications for Edo Politics Ahead of 2027
Omoruyi emphasized that since his election, his focus has remained on his core legislative and oversight duties. However, he stressed that aligning with the ADC was a strategic step to better reflect his constituents' wishes and to drive tangible development in his constituency.
This defection is politically consequential. It effectively consolidates the growing influence of the African Democratic Congress in Edo State as the political landscape begins to take shape for the 2027 general elections. The move also underscores the continuing realignments and strategic manoeuvres among opposition politicians in Nigeria, signaling potential shifts in voter allegiance and party strength in the South-South region.
