Ike Nnachi, Abakaliki
The former Ebonyi State zonal vice chairman Central of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Mr. Kevin Chukwu, has formally resigned from the party and defected to the African Democratic Congress (ADC), alongside more than 10,000 supporters drawn from various political parties.
The defection ceremony, held in his Enyimba Agalegu community in Ikwo Local Government Area of Ebonyi State, attracted party stakeholders, supporters, and residents from neighbouring communities.
Addressing the gathering, Chukwu disclosed that his resignation from the PDP was officially submitted on January 8 to his ward chairman, who acknowledged receipt. He explained that his decision followed extensive consultations with his constituents and growing dissatisfaction with the political direction of major parties.
“Politics is local. You cannot play politics away from your locality,” he said. “The political position I held was affecting my people, and when I returned home, they made it clear that it was not good.”
He stated that his move to the ADC was influenced both by the wishes of his people and what he described as an emerging national political trend, noting that several prominent political figures had also defected to the party in pursuit of a better future for Nigeria.
According to him, Nigerians are increasingly frustrated with unfulfilled political promises and are now seeking a new direction anchored on credible leadership and tangible development.
“We are tired of empty promises. We want leaders who will do the right thing and move Nigeria forward,” he declared.
Chukwu said he has not yet decided whether to contest any position in the 2027 general elections, explaining that his immediate priority is reorganizing his political base and strengthening the ADC in the area.
“The most important thing now is to organize my political life. With ADC, I believe I can shape my political future, whether to contest or support others,” he said.
He described the turnout at the event as overwhelming, claiming that more than 10,000 supporters defected with him, many of whom mobilized themselves without financial inducement.
Chukwu urged Nigerians, particularly his constituents, to embrace what he termed a “new political circle” by aligning with parties they believe can secure the country’s future.
Welcoming the defectors, the Ebonyi State Chairman of the ADC, Jennifer Adibe, expressed excitement over the influx of new members led by Kelvin Chukwu.
She said their decision followed a careful review of the party’s manifesto and ideology.
“I am very happy to receive members from the PDP, Labour Party, and other parties led by Chief Kelvin Chukwu,” Adibe said.
“After studying our manifesto, they agreed this is the right place to be.”
According to her, all executive members of the PDP within the defectors’ bloc have formally joined the ADC. She assured that the party would fully integrate them into its existing structure.
“This is a coalition, and we must work together. We will harmonize interests and ensure everyone is carried along. ADC is accommodating, as symbolized by our handshake logo,” she noted.
Adibe contrasted the emerging coalition with past political alliances that failed to meet public expectations, insisting that the ADC-led coalition is different because of the quality of leaders involved and their shared commitment to national development.
“This coalition has the interest of Nigerians at heart. It is not like the ones we have seen before. You will see the difference when we begin to win elections,” she said.
Addressing concerns over managing diverse interests, she emphasized inclusion and unity, adding that the party would avoid parallel leadership structures.
“We will not have parallel structures or parallel governments. When people are accommodated, there will be unity,” she stated.
The event concluded with the formal presentation of ADC membership cards to the new members.
The defection is widely seen as a significant boost for the ADC in Ebonyi State as the party continues to expand its influence ahead of the 2027 general elections.
