Opposition Lawmakers Reaffirm Loyalty Amid APC Defections

Opposition lawmakers in Nigeria have pledged their loyalty to their respective parties, particularly the People's Democratic Party (PDP) and Labour Party (LP), amidst a notable increase in defections to the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC). This trend has raised concerns about the opposition's ability to present a unified front as the 2027 general elections approach.

The APC currently holds 241 seats in the 360-member House of Representatives, while the opposition parties collectively hold 119 seats. Key figures like Atiku Abubakar of the PDP and Peter Obi of the LP are seen as pivotal in forming a broader coalition against President Bola Tinubu in the upcoming elections.

Lawmakers such as Joshua Gana from Niger State and Obinna Onwusib from Abia State have publicly stated their commitment to their parties, emphasizing the need for solidarity and leadership to face electoral challenges. The opposition's internal conflicts and leadership disputes have been cited as factors contributing to the recent defections.