Former Labour Party (LP) governorship candidate in the 2024 Edo State election, Olumide Akpata, has officially joined the African Democratic Congress (ADC).

Akpata was formally received by Edo State Chairman of the ADC, Kennedy Odion, alongside party leaders including former Edo State governors John Odigie-Oyegun and Oserheimen Osunbor. Others present were former Senate Chief Whip Roland Owie, House of Representatives member for Egor/Ikpoba-Okha Federal Constituency, Murphy Omoruyi, and former Labour Party presidential candidate, Peter Obi.

Speaking after receiving his membership card, Akpata said his decision was influenced by Obi’s defection to the ADC on December 31, 2025. He added that he joined the party to contribute meaningfully to its growth and the broader vision of building a new Nigeria, while thanking the leadership for their warm reception and praising the Obidient Movement for its resilience.

Obi, in his remarks, reiterated his commitment to the struggle for a new Nigeria, noting attempts to frustrate the movement. “Our commitment to a new Nigeria is total, even though they are doing everything possible to stop us,” he said. He emphasized the need to restructure Nigeria to serve all citizens and to shift the economy from consumption-driven to production-focused.

Edo ADC Chairman Odion thanked Obi for his steadfastness and reaffirmed the party’s dedication to national renewal.

Osunbor highlighted the ADC’s steady growth in numbers and quality, describing Nigeria as a nation in urgent need of rescue. Recalling Odigie-Oyegun’s role in the 2013 coalition that led to the APC’s 2015 victory, Osunbor expressed confidence that history would repeat under the ADC. He also accused the ruling party of planning to manipulate the 2027 elections, citing opposition to real-time electronic transmission of results as evidence, and urged Nigerians to remain vigilant.

This development marks a significant consolidation of prominent political figures within the ADC ahead of the 2027 general elections.