Ahead of the 2027 general elections, the Labour Party’s governorship candidate in Delta State during the 2023 elections, Deacon Kawhariebie Pela, has led a major wave of defections from the Labour Party (LP) to the African Democratic Congress (ADC).
The defection ceremony, held on Wednesday, January 7, 2026, at the Orchid Hotel in Asaba, marked a significant political realignment in Delta State. The event attracted a large gathering of political stakeholders, including prominent members of the Obidient movement and former LP candidates for the National Assembly, Delta State House of Assembly, and local government councils.
Top national and zonal leaders of the ADC were present to receive the defectors, underscoring the party’s growing influence in the South-South region and beyond.
Speaking at the event, the Delta State Chairman of the ADC, Austin Okolie, described the development as historic, noting that it signalled the emergence of a new political direction in the state ahead of the 2027 polls.
“This marks a major political realignment in Delta State and sends a strong message that a new progressive coalition is taking shape,” Okolie said.
Leading the defectors, Deacon Pela said his decision to leave the Labour Party was guided by the need for a political platform anchored on integrity, accountability, and service to the people. He criticised what he described as a political culture that prioritises personal loyalty over competence and effective governance.
“Delta State is blessed with resources but burdened by broken trust. We need politics driven by responsibility, integrity, and results,” Pela stated.
He formally announced his resignation from the Labour Party and pledged allegiance to the ADC, committing himself to the party’s values and vision for responsible leadership and institutional reform.
Receiving the defectors on behalf of the national leadership of the ADC, party officials described Pela’s move as a reflection of the party’s growing national appeal and its commitment to people-centred governance.
The ceremony concluded with the formal presentation of ADC membership cards to Pela and other defectors, marking their official entry into the party.
