Labour Party Gains 1,000 New Members as PDP, APC, ADC Defectors Join in Benue

The Labour Party has gained more than 1,000 new members in Ogbadibo Local Government Area of Benue State after supporters of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), All Progressives Congress (APC), African Democratic Congress (ADC) and other parties defected.

The latest mass defection took place in Orokam District on Wednesday. It comes as political parties intensify their activities across Ogbadibo ahead of the 2027 general election.

Ogbadibo comprises Orokam, Owukpa and Otukpa districts.

The defectors include political stakeholders, community leaders and party supporters. They formally joined the Labour Party at a ceremony attended by party leaders from the state and local government.

The development marks another boost for the Labour Party in the local government, where political parties are already positioning themselves for the next election.

Speaking for the defectors, former ADC House of Assembly aspirant Hon. E.E. Justice said the group decided to join the Labour Party because of what they described as its commitment to inclusive leadership.

He also cited development and grassroots participation as key reasons for their decision.

According to Justice, the defectors believe the party can provide a platform for wider participation in political and community affairs.

The move could further reshape political alignments in Ogbadibo as parties prepare for the 2027 polls.

However, the defection is only one part of the wider political realignment taking place in the area. Political actors are expected to continue consultations and mobilisation as the election approaches.

For the Labour Party, the arrival of more than 1,000 members gives the party an opportunity to strengthen its grassroots structure in Ogbadibo.

It also places greater attention on the party’s ability to turn the new membership into sustained political support ahead of 2027.