Abaribe dumps ADC, returns to Labour party over legal uncertainty

Senator representing Abia South, Enyinnaya Abaribe, has resigned from the African Democratic Congress (ADC) and joined the Labour Party (LP), citing growing uncertainty within the party.

In a message sent to associates on Monday and later confirmed by his media aide, Abaribe said his decision was informed by multiple lawsuits and court judgments affecting the ADC’s stability.

“Given the uncertainties concerning the ADC party with regard to the multiple lawsuits and court judgements, I have today resigned from the ADC and joined the Labour Party effectively immediately,” he said.

He stressed that the decision was not driven by any personal disagreement with party leaders or members, noting that he maintained cordial relations within the ADC.

“This has nothing to do with the leadership and members whom I have enjoyed and will continue to enjoy close and solid relationships with,” he added.

Abaribe described the move as a difficult but necessary leadership decision taken in a period of political uncertainty, while thanking his supporters for their commitment to national development.

His media aide, Uche Awom, also confirmed the development, saying: “Yes, it is true; Senator Abaribe has moved to the Labour Party.”

The senator was among lawmakers who defected to the ADC earlier in March 2026, having previously been elected under the All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA) in the 2023 elections.

Abaribe, a former Deputy Governor of Abia State, is currently serving his fourth term in the Senate and is reportedly preparing to seek a fifth term in the 2027 elections.