Delta LP Governorship Candidate Pela Leads Major Defection to ADC

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In a significant prelude to the 2027 general elections, Deacon Kawhariebie Pela, the Labour Party’s 2023 governorship candidate in Delta State, has spearheaded a high-profile wave of defections to the African Democratic Congress (ADC). The move signals a notable reshaping of the state’s political landscape.

The mass defection took place on Wednesday, January 7, 2026, at the Orchid Hotel in Asaba, drawing a large gathering of political figures, particularly from the Obidient movement. Former Labour Party aspirants for the National Assembly, the Delta State House of Assembly, and local government positions were among those who switched allegiance.

National and Regional ADC Leaders in Attendance

The event attracted senior ADC leaders, including Deputy National Chairman Senator Andrew Uchendu, National Chief Whip Festus Igbinoba, National PWD Leader Chike Okogwu, and South-South Zonal officials such as Mabel Oboh and Dr. Bright Honda. Delta State leaders, including Mrs. Joy Mena, Faith Okolo, Lady Chinwe Ejido, and former presidential aide Lauretta Onochie, were also present, demonstrating the party’s growing influence in the region.

Delta ADC Chairman Austin Okolie described the defection as a historic milestone. “This marks a significant political shift in Delta State and signals the emergence of a new progressive coalition ahead of the 2027 elections,” he said. Okolie emphasized that the high-level turnout reflected ADC’s expanding grassroots reach and its alignment with national reform objectives.

Pela Explains His Decision

Leading the wave of defectors, Pela outlined his reasons for leaving the Labour Party, citing a desire to join a platform founded on integrity and public service. Criticizing the political culture that rewards patronage over competence, he argued that the state’s politics needed a values-driven approach.

“Delta State is richly blessed but burdened by broken trust and a political culture that rewards noise instead of substance,” Pela stated. He added, “We need politics rooted in responsibility and service. That is why I chose the ADC — a platform that prioritizes values over personalities and measures governance by results, not empty rhetoric.”

Pela also highlighted national challenges, including insecurity and widespread economic hardship, pointing out that over 130 million Nigerians live in multidimensional poverty. He formally resigned from the Labour Party, pledging allegiance to the ADC’s constitution and principles, and committed to service-driven leadership grounded in transparency and integrity.

ADC Leaders Welcome the Defectors

Receiving Pela and the new members on behalf of ADC National Chairman David Mark, National Chief Whip Festus Igbinoba hailed the move as a convergence of principled leadership. “This is a gathering of values-driven leaders. The ADC continues to attract individuals dedicated to discipline, growth, and people-centered governance,” he said.

Deputy National Chairman Senator Andrew Uchendu reinforced the message, highlighting Pela’s stature as a key boost for the party’s national relevance. “The ADC is honoured to welcome a leader of Ken Pela’s calibre. His move strengthens our mission to offer Nigerians credible leadership built on integrity and service,” he stated.

The ceremony concluded with the official presentation of ADC membership cards to Pela and other defectors, led by Jeremi Ward 2 ADC Chairman, formally cementing their alignment with the party.

Analysis: Implications for Delta Politics

Political analysts note that Pela’s defection could shift the balance in Delta State, especially among supporters of the Obidient movement. By joining the ADC, Pela not only signals dissatisfaction with his former party but also strengthens a platform perceived as reform-oriented and service-driven. The move may inspire further defections and reshape electoral strategies ahead of 2027, potentially positioning the ADC as a serious contender in the state’s political contests.