Gilbert Nnaji, former senator representing Enugu east, has defected to the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) four months after joining the African Democratic Congress (ADC).
Nnaji announced his decision in a statement issued after the maiden national convention of the NDC.
The former chairman of the senate committee on communications said the party represents a “New Nigeria” founded on service, unity and grassroots mobilisation.
“The journey to our New Beginning has now restarted to the glory of God,” he said.
“NDC has made a loud and clear statement in this regard. NDC is the firm reassurance for a New Nigeria that will work for all of us.”
Nnaji said the party is made up of Nigerians with “proven” records in public leadership and governance.
“NDC is peopled and driven by men and women with track records of performance in public leadership and service,” he said.
“These are eminent Nigerians who are united in the quest for a New order.”
The former lawmaker said the NDC’s decision to zone its presidential ticket to the south for a single four-year term reflects its commitment to national unity and reconciliation.
“As such, the resolve of the NDC to zone its Presidential Slot to the South for a single term of four years is yet another testament to a patriotic commitment to national healing and reconciliation,” he said.
Nnaji also criticised the state of governance in the country, saying Nigeria was increasingly divided and insecure.
“My good people, you will agree with me that Nigeria has never been as divided and polarized as it is now,” he said.
“Across the country, there is a high level of mutual suspicion, which in turn fuels insecurity and grossly undermines governance. The government of the day appears to be overwhelmed.”
The former senator urged Nigerians to support the NDC’s movement for what he described as a “New Beginning”.
“Nigeria belongs to all of us, and together, we shall rescue and redirect it,” he said.
Nnaji resigned from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in December after 27 years in the party.
At the time, he said recent developments had shown that the PDP has become “irredeemable” and subsequently joined the ADC.
The former senator is now seeking the NDC governorship ticket for Enugu state ahead of the 2027 general election.
