Olumide Akpata Defects to ADC, Says New Nigeria Possible

The 2024 governorship candidate of the Labour Party (LP) in Edo State, Olumide Akpata, on Tuesday formally defected to the African Democratic Congress (ADC).

Akpata was received into the party at an event in Benin City by the 2023 LP presidential candidate, Peter Obi; former Edo State governor, John Odigie-Oyegun; ex-governor Oserhiemen Osunbor; former Chief Whip of the Senate, Roland Owie; Kennedy Odion and other party leaders.

Speaking after receiving his registration card, Akpata said a new Nigeria was possible if citizens vote wisely for the right candidates and political parties.

He explained that his defection, alongside his running mate in the 2024 governorship election, Yusuf Asama Kadiri, members of the Obidient Movement and other supporters, was aimed at adding value to the party.

Akpata expressed appreciation to party leaders for the reception, particularly Obi and Oyegun, noting that their support influenced the move.

In his remarks, Oyegun said the party’s strength was growing daily, not only in numbers but in quality, describing Akpata as a valuable addition to the ADC. He noted that although Akpata had earlier shown some hesitation about continuing active politics, he later became convinced that Nigeria required urgent reform.

Earlier, Odion described Akpata as a leader who understands governance and the reforms needed to move the country from its current economic challenges to a more stable path.

On his part, Obi assured that the ADC remained committed to building a new Nigeria despite political obstacles. He emphasised the need to shift the country’s focus from consumption to production, arguing that sustainable investment in productive sectors was key to economic growth and poverty reduction.

Obi urged supporters to remain committed to the vision of national transformation, stressing that achieving a better future would require persistence and collective effort.