Senate President Godswill Akpabio has described the African Democratic Congress (ADC) as “dead” following a series of defections from the party in the National Assembly.

He made the remark during Tuesday’s plenary after reading a resignation letter from Senator Enyinnaya Abaribe of Abia South, who formally announced his exit from the ADC and his move to the Labour Party.

Enyinnaya Abaribe said his decision was influenced by internal instability within the ADC, including ongoing court cases and leadership disputes. He stressed that his departure was not personal and that he still maintained cordial relations with members of the party.

Reacting to the announcement, Senate President Akpabio urged lawmakers to simplify the process of announcing defections, suggesting that multiple resignations be grouped together instead of being read individually on the floor of the Senate.

He also said the situation reflected the weakening state of the party, adding, “I think ADC is dead,” as more lawmakers continue to leave.

Akpabio noted that the constitution provides guidance on party switching and advised that defections be presented in a more organised manner to avoid repeated announcements.

The development comes amid wider political realignments in the National Assembly, with several lawmakers reportedly moving to other political parties.