Two PDP Lawmakers Defect to APC Amid Party Crisis

The ranks of the opposition Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in the House of Representatives have once again been depleted as two lawmakers defected to the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), citing internal crises within their former party.

The Speaker of the House, Tajudeen Abbas, formally announced the defections of Jallo Mohammed (Igabi Federal Constituency, Kaduna State) and Adamu Tanko (Gurara/Suleja/Tafa, Niger State) during a plenary session on Tuesday.

Both lawmakers pointed to unresolved internal divisions within the PDP as the key reason for their decision, stating that the turmoil was hampering their ability to effectively serve their constituents.

“This unfortunate turn of events has left me with no choice but to seek a more stable political platform through which I can better serve the interests and aspirations of my constituents,” Mohammed stated in his resignation letter.

He further praised Speaker Abbas for his “excellent and exemplary leadership,” adding that the APC’s commitment to national unity, governance, and legislative excellence aligned with his vision for his constituency.

Similarly, Tanko said his defection was the result of “careful consideration and consultation with my constituents.”

However, the House Minority Leader, Kingsley Chinda, objected to the move, arguing that there was no substantial evidence of a crisis within the PDP to justify the lawmakers’ exit.

The latest switch continues a growing trend of lawmakers abandoning the PDP for the APC in recent months. October 2 – Chris Nkwonta (Ukwa East/Ukwa West, Abia State) left the PDP for APC. October 30 – Sulaiman Abubakar (Gummi/Bukkuyum, Zamfara) defected from PDP to APC.

December 5 – Four Labour Party (LP) members and one PDP lawmaker crossed over to APC. February 11 – Amos Magaji (Kaduna) left PDP for APC. February 12 – Garba Koko (Kebbi) defected from PDP to APC.

With the 2027 elections on the horizon, the shifting political landscape suggests the APC is consolidating its strength, while the PDP grapples with internal struggles that could further weaken its influence.