Four Reps Defect From PDP, LP to APC

Four members of Nigeria’s House of Representatives have defected from the opposition Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and Labour Party (LP) to the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), marking another political shift in the National Assembly.

The lawmakers who switched parties include Inuwa Garuba, representing Yamaltu/Deba Federal Constituency of Gombe State, Abdullahi El‑Rasheed, representing Dukku/Nafada Federal Constituency of Gombe State, and Mohammed Audu, who represents Karim Lamido/Lau/Ardo-Kola Federal Constituency of Taraba State.

The three lawmakers dumped the PDP to join the APC. Also defecting is Obika Chinedu, the lawmaker representing Abuja Municipal/Bwari Federal Constituency in the Federal Capital Territory, who moved from the Labour Party to the APC.

The defections were formally announced during plenary at the House of Representatives of Nigeria, after the lawmakers submitted letters notifying the chamber of their decisions.

In their letters, the lawmakers cited internal crises and divisions within their former political parties as the main reason for their defection, noting that the situation had made it difficult for them to effectively pursue their legislative responsibilities and political goals.

Political observers say the development reflects the continuing realignment within Nigeria’s political landscape, particularly within opposition parties, as lawmakers reposition ahead of future electoral contests.

The latest defections are expected to further strengthen the numerical advantage of the ruling APC in the House of Representatives.