A major political shift occurred Thursday as four Labour Party (LP) members defected to the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC).
The defections took place on the floor of the House of Representatives, with Speaker Abbas Tajudeen confirming the announcement. The defectors represent four states: Kaduna, Imo, Edo, and Cross River, making this a nationwide event.
The four lawmakers who joined APC include Chinedu Okere, Mathew Donatus, Akiba Bassey, and Esosa Iyawe from key constituencies. Okere represents Owerri Municipal, while Donatus is from Kaura Federal Constituency in Kaduna, a strategic defection. Bassey and Iyawe represent Calabar Municipal and Oredo Federal Constituency, respectively, both crucial strongholds in their states.
The defections come as the APC looks to solidify its control over the House of Representatives amid growing tensions. Labour Party leadership has yet to comment on the sudden wave of defections, which could weaken their influence. Political analysts are predicting more shifts in allegiance, especially as the 2024 elections approach with heightened party rivalries.
