Olumide Akpata, the former Labour Party (LP) governorship hopeful in Edo State”], has stated that his decision to join the African Democratic Congress (ADC) was motivated by his admiration for former presidential candidate Peter Obi.
Addressing supporters at the ADC secretariat in Benin City, Edo State, Akpata stated that his defection was aimed at strengthening the party and supporting Obi’s vision of national renewal.
At the event, Akpata was formally received by the Edo State ADC Chairman, Kennedy Odion, in the presence of notable political figures such as former Edo State governors John Odigie-Oyegun and Oserheimen Osunbor, former Senate Chief Whip Roland Owie, as well as other senior party members.
The gathering was described as a significant boost to the ADC’s profile in the state.
After being presented with his membership card by Odion, Akpata pointed to Obi’s earlier decision to join the ADC on December 31, 2025, as a major influence on his own choice.
“I joined the party to add value and to be part of the change that Obi represents,” he remarked, while also thanking members of the Obidient Movement for their encouragement and warm welcome.
In his remarks, Obi reiterated his dedication to building a Nigeria that serves the broader population rather than a select elite.
“We must build a nation that moves from consumption to production,” he said, stressing the ADC’s commitment to broad-based prosperity and fair economic progress.
Party elders and former governors commended the expanding coalition within the ADC, pointing to previous political achievements and voicing optimism about success in the 2027 general elections.
Osunbor specifically cautioned against any manipulation of the electoral process by the ruling party, urging citizens to stay alert and protect the country’s democratic institutions.
