Nigeria’s opposition parties suffered fresh setbacks on Tuesday, June 24, as two members of the House of Representatives defected to the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC). The latest defections add to the increasing number of opposition lawmakers switching allegiance to the dominant party in recent months.
Peter Akpanke, who represents the Obanliku/Obudu/Bekwarra federal constituency of Cross River State under the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), announced his move to the APC. He blamed a lingering internal crisis in the PDP that he said had remained unresolved despite several efforts.
Labour Party’s Professor Paul Nnamchi, representing Enugu East/Isi Uzo federal constituency in Enugu State, also joined the APC. He attributed his defection to ongoing leadership issues within the LP.
Both lawmakers submitted their defection letters to the House, and the letters were read aloud during Tuesday’s plenary session by Speaker Abbas Tajudeen.
“I am leaving the PDP because of an unending crisis that has crippled the party’s structure in my state,” Akpanke stated in his letter.
Professor Nnamchi expressed similar frustration. “The leadership conflict in my party has made it impossible to serve my constituents effectively,” he said.
APC Continues to Expand Its Numbers in the House
The latest defections bring fresh momentum to the APC, which has gradually expanded its influence in the National Assembly since the 2023 general elections.
At least several lawmakers from various opposition parties, including the PDP and Labour Party, have already crossed over to the ruling party.
Both the PDP and Labour Party have battled internal disputes in recent months, including leadership disagreements, factional fights, and court battles over party control.
These unresolved problems have weakened their standing and prompted defections to the APC, which now controls a wider majority in the National Assembly than was voted by the electorate in the 2023 general election.
The ruling party has continued to welcome the defectors, arguing that their decisions show growing confidence in the APC-led government. However, critics argue that many lawmakers are switching parties for political survival and personal gain, rather than out of ideology or loyalty.
Enjoyed this story? Rate it, leave a comment💬, and follow us on social media for more. Got a news tip or story to share? Submit it here and earn points toward ₦10,000 rewards!
WhatsApp Channel
Telegram Channel
