Funso Doherty dumps ADC again, joins NDC amid opposition coalition split

Funso Doherty, a former governorship candidate in Lagos State, has resigned from the African Democratic Congress (ADC) for the second time and joined the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC), citing divisions within the opposition coalition.

In a statement issued Thursday, Doherty said recent developments within the ADC had led to a split among coalition leaders, with some members defecting to the NDC while others remained in the ADC.

“Most of us are aware of developments concerning the ADC that have collectively resulted in a division of the coalition with some leaders moving to the NDC and some remaining in the ADC,” he said.

Doherty noted that the coalition initially saw the ADC as a platform capable of uniting opposition forces ahead of future political contests, but said that objective had failed.

“We had hoped that ADC would be the vehicle that would unite the opposition. That is now clearly no longer the case,” he stated.
According to him, the internal division within the coalition made it necessary for members to choose between staying in the ADC or aligning with the NDC.

“In these circumstances therefore, we must each individually make a decision as to whether to remain with the ADC or move to the NDC,” the statement read.

Announcing his decision, Doherty said he arrived at the move after extensive consultations and reflection.

“After due consultation, careful deliberation and prayerful reflection, I have joined the NDC,” he said, adding that he believed the party would provide a platform to “deliver the benefits of good governance to those to whom they are due — every citizen, without exception.”

He acknowledged that the political struggle ahead would be difficult but urged supporters to join the movement.

“The battle ahead remains formidable, but I invite you to join us on this exciting, though sometimes turbulent, journey to a brighter future,” he said.

Doherty contested the 2023 Lagos gubernatorial election on the platform of the ADC and secured the fourth position in the poll. He, however, dumped the ADC for the PDP in 2024. The economist rejoined the ADC three weeks ago and declared his 2027 guber ambition.