Eleven Opposition Reps Defect to APC and ADC

On Thursday, eleven opposition representatives defected from the People's Democratic Party (PDP) to the All Progressives Congress (APC) and the African Democratic Congress (ADC), marking a significant political shift in the House of Representatives. The defections were announced during a plenary session, with Deputy Speaker Benjamin Kalu (Rep, Bende) attributing the wave of cross-carpeting to ongoing internal crises within the opposition parties.

The defectors included Bitru Kwamoti, Zakaria Nyampa, Jame Barka, Kobi Thinmu from Adamawa State, Moham Bargaja from Sokoto, and Midala Balami from Borno, as well as Afam Ogen, Lilian Orogwu, and Peter Aniekw from Anambra State. Additionally, two Labour Party lawmakers, Jessi Onuakalusi from Lagos State and Osaro Omoruyi from Edo State, joined the ADC, while Peter Uzokw from Anambra moved to the ADC from the Young Progressives Party.

Kalu emphasized that the APC is a broad platform that reflects confidence in its leadership and programs. This wave of defections occurs amid a broader political realignment as major opposition figures, including former Vice President Atiku Abubakar and Labour Party presidential candidate Peter Obi, explore new alliances ahead of the 2027 general elections.