Two PDP reps defect to APC over ‘internal divisions’

Two members of the house of representatives have defected from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to the All Progressives Congress (APC).

Tajudeen Abbas, speaker of the house, announced the defections in a letter read on the floor of the lower legislative chamber on Tuesday.

The lawmakers are Jallo Mohammed (Igabi federal lawmaker, Kaduna state), and Adamu Tanko (Gurara/Suleja/Tapa, Niger state).

Both politicians attributed their defections to the “party’s crisis and internal divisions”.

The lawmakers claimed that the crisis in the opposition party is preventing them from fulfilling their duties to 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 wrote.

“Furthermore, I have been inspired by your (Abbas) excellent and exemplary leadership.

“Your dedication to national unity, good governance, and legislative excellence has convinced me that the All Progressives Congress is the appropriate platform to further my legislative and constituency development agenda.

“I acknowledge and appreciate the support I have received from colleagues in the PDP over the years. Nevertheless, the current challenges besetting the party made it untenable for me to continue under the present circumstances.”

Similarly, Tanko said he joined the APC after “careful consideration and consultation with my constituents”.

However, Kingsley Chinda, the house minority leader, protested the defection, saying there was no proof of crisis in the party.

In recent weeks, several lawmakers have defected from the PDP and LP to the APC.

On October 2, Chris Nkwonta, who represents Ukwa east/Ukwa west federal constituency of Abia state, left the PDP for APC.

On October 30, Sulaiman Abubakar, who represents Gummi/Bukkuyum federal constituency of Zamfara, ditched the PDP for the APC.

On December 5, four LP members and one PDP lawmaker in the green chamber defected to the APC.

On February 11, Amos Magaji from Kaduna defected from PDP to APC.

On February 12, Garba Koko from Kebbi joined the APC from the PDP.