Stephen Ukandu, Umuahia
Senator Austin Akobundu, who represents Abia Central Senatorial District, has resigned his membership of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and defected to the African Democratic Congress (ADC), citing the lingering internal crisis rocking the party.
Akobundu, a former National Organising Secretary of the PDP, conveyed his decision in a letter titled “Notice of Formal Resignation” addressed to the PDP Ward Chairman in his Oloko Ward, Ikwuano Local Government Area of Abia State.
In the letter dated March 10, 2026, the lawmaker said his resignation from the party takes immediate effect.
The senator explained that his decision followed wide consultations with his associates and supporters, adding that the protracted leadership crisis within the PDP had made it difficult for him to continue his membership of the party.
He, however, expressed appreciation to the PDP for the opportunity to serve in various strategic capacities both within the party and at the national level.
“At this time of our nation’s political evolution, the sad and seemingly intractable crises that have engulfed the party for so long, and after wide consultations with my associates and supporters, it has become pertinent that I take the very painful but necessary decision to resign my membership of the party,” Akobundu said.
His defection marks a major political shift in Abia State, as the PDP has now lost its only senator from the state in the National Assembly.
Despite his exit, the lawmaker wished the party well and expressed hope that it would overcome its internal challenges in the interest of Nigeria’s democracy.
