By Ijeoma Sandra, Nnewi
A significant political development has emerged in Anambra State as frontline House of Representatives aspirant, Amb. Ikebunwa Lotanna, has officially resigned from the African Democratic Congress (ADC) and declared his allegiance to the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC), in alignment with his principal, Peter Obi.
Lotanna, a leading contender for the Nnewi North, Nnewi South, and Ekwusigo Federal Constituency seat, formally submitted his resignation letter to his ward chairman immediately following Obi’s exit from the ADC. His move underscores a deep-rooted loyalty to Obi’s political ideology and leadership direction.
Speaking on his decision, Lotanna emphasized that his defection was driven by an unwavering belief in Obi’s vision for Nigeria. According to him, the decision to leave the ADC was not merely political but ideological, rooted in his commitment to what he described as a mission to rescue Nigeria’s democracy and reposition the country economically.
He further alleged that the ruling party is actively working to weaken opposition forces by fueling internal crises within their ranks, with the aim of preventing credible challengers from emerging in the 2027 elections. He suggested that there is a deliberate effort to keep Obi off the ballot, stressing that such actions stem from fear of Obi’s growing influence and acceptance among Nigerians.
Reaffirming his loyalty, Lotanna described himself as a steadfast follower of Obi’s political philosophy, stating that he remains fully committed to supporting his ambition at all levels. He noted that his own aspiration to represent his constituency in the House of Representatives remains unchanged but is now strategically positioned as part of a broader plan to support Obi’s anticipated presidency from within the National Assembly.
He called on his supporters and political associates to join him in the NDC, urging them to remain aligned with what he described as a transformative movement under Obi’s leadership.
This defection is part of a wider political realignment sweeping across Nigeria’s opposition landscape. Reports indicate that no fewer than 18 lawmakers, including 17 members of the House of Representatives and one senator, have also left the ADC for the NDC.
The wave of defections follows the high-profile departure of Peter Obi and Rabiu Kwankwaso from the ADC, developments that have raised serious questions about the stability and future of opposition coalitions ahead of the 2027 general elections.
With the ongoing shifts, the NDC is rapidly becoming the new focal point of opposition politics in Nigeria, signaling what could become a defining realignment in the country’s political trajectory.
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