No fewer than 17 members of the House of Representatives have defected from the African Democratic Congress, ADC, to the Nigeria Democratic Congress, NDC.

The defections were announced on the floor of the House on Tuesday, marking one of the largest single movements of lawmakers between opposition parties ahead of the 2027 general elections.

In separate letters read during plenary, the lawmakers cited internal party developments and the need to align with a platform they believe can better advance their legislative and constituency interests.

The development comes amid ongoing realignments within Nigeria’s political space as parties and coalitions position themselves for the next election cycle. Political analysts say the defections could shift the balance of influence in the House and signal broader coalition-building among opposition groups.

Both the ADC and NDC have yet to issue official statements on the matter. The Speaker acknowledged the letters and directed that they be recorded.

The defections bring the total number of opposition lawmakers in the House who have switched parties in recent months to a new high, highlighting the fluid nature of political alliances ahead of the polls.