APC Hits 268 Seats as 12 Lawmakers Defect from Opposition Parties

By 𝔸bdulrazak Tomiwa

The All Progresdived Congress , APC membership in the House of Representatives has climbed to 268 following the defection of 12 lawmakers from the PDP, LP, and ADC.

This move significantly strengthens the ruling party’s majority.

Speaker, Tajudeen Abbas officially announced the shift during a plenary session. The defectors cited persistent internal crises and leadership divisions within their former parties as the primary reasons for their departure.

Notable defectors include Joshua Obika (FCT) and Inuwa Garba (Gombe). They claimed that the instability in their previous parties hindered their ability to effectively represent their constituents’ interests.

The PDP and LP have been hit hard, as members expressed frustration over factionalism and leadership tussles. Many defectors stated they were seeking the more stable environment offered by the APC.

APC leadership welcomed the newcomers, viewing the influx as an endorsement of President Tinubu’s “Renewed Hope” agenda. The party promised the new members full rights and equal standing within the caucus.

With 268 seats, the APC now holds a dominant position that simplifies passing executive bills. This shift effectively weakens the opposition’s influence and reshapes the power dynamics within the National Assembly.