African Democratic Congress (ADC) has recorded a massive defection of prominent politicians in Imo State, including members of the Obedient Movement, Labour Party leaders and followers, Rescue Mission members, PDP members, key opposition leaders, and other political actors.
Speaking during the stakeholders' meeting held at the party secretariat in New Owerri, Imo State, ADC Chairman, Prof. James Okoroma, described the defection as a surge with a clear message of massive support from the electorate.
Prof. Okoroma explained that ADC is a divinely considered and consecrated platform that will deliver Imo people and entire Nigerians from the shackles of wicked political leaders who delight in suffering the masses.
He recalled how the 1959 and 1979 coalitions succeeded and expressed optimism that the current coalition championed under the ADC platform will succeed.
The Imo State ADC Chairman called on the people to work with unity, extreme commitment, and unparalleled patriotism.
According to him, as the ADC's massive defection sends shockwaves across Imo State and Nigeria's political landscape, a united front will be absolutely crucial in determining the party's chances and success in the 2027 general elections.
From available records, the ADC Imo State chapter raked in about N219.7 million at the stakeholders' meeting, indicating a vehement push to challenge the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) in the 2027 elections.
The meeting, attended by party leaders and members, including former governors Achike Udenwa and Emeka Ihedioha, aimed to coordinate party leaders and prepare for future challenges.
In his speech at the meeting, former Governor Achike Udenwa described ADC as a gathering of seasoned politicians, with the required capacity and capability to match activity with productivity for the betterment of the electorate.
Adding his words, former Imo State Governor, Rt. Hon. Emeka Ihedioha, expressed delight that ADC has men of timber and caliber, with all it takes to finance the party, win elections with a landslide victory at the state and national levels.
Ihedioha called for adjustments for advancement to accommodate the newly defected members from Labour Party, Obedient Movement, Rescue Mission, PDP, and ensure they are carried along in the scheme of things.
He eulogized former Governor Achike Udenwa for his developmental strides during his era as governor, which have remained indelible, and his consistency in sterling leadership qualities.
The Vice Chairman of ADC, South East Zone, Chief Bon Unachukwu, while addressing the people, described Imo ADC as the best-organized party in the state and called for focused actions, unity of purpose, passionate commitment, selfless service, and sincerity of purpose.
The Imo ADC leadership urged stakeholders to remain focused on the ultimate goal of defeating the APC in 2027, both in Imo State and at the federal level.
Other prominent personalities at the event included Chief Paul Mbadiwe, second don of K.O Mbadiwe, Barr. Mrs. Ngozi Njoku, Chief Vin Udogwu, former House of Representatives members Hon. Rufus Omeire, and Hon. Peter Ezeala, among others from the diaspora.
A highlight of the event was the financial donation from all 27 LGAs in Imo State, top ADC stakeholders, apex leaders in the party and others from the diaspora.