Rivers West Senator, Banigo Defects from PDP to APC

By Momodu Favour

The Senator representing Rivers West Senatorial District, Ipalibo Banigo, has officially defected from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to the All Progressives Congress (APC).

Banigo announced her defection on Tuesday during plenary at the Senate chamber of the National Assembly of Nigeria in Abuja, formally ending her affiliation with the opposition party under which she was elected into the upper legislative chamber.

Her decision was conveyed through a letter addressed to the President of the Senate, Godswill Akpabio, which was read on the floor of the Senate during the session.

In the letter, Banigo explained that her decision to join the ruling APC was influenced by ongoing political developments and internal challenges within the PDP, which she said had made it difficult for her to continue operating effectively within the party.

She noted that the move was taken after consultations with political associates and stakeholders in her senatorial district, adding that it was in the best interest of her constituents and aimed at ensuring greater political cooperation at the national level.

Banigo also reaffirmed her commitment to providing quality representation for the people of Rivers West Senatorial District, assuring them that her defection would not affect her dedication to their welfare and development.

The lawmaker, who previously served as Deputy Governor of Rivers State between 2015 and 2023, was elected to the Senate in the 2023 general elections on the platform of the PDP.

Her defection is considered a notable political development in Rivers State, where the PDP has long maintained significant political dominance. Observers say the move could further reshape the political dynamics within the state and the Senate.

Banigo’s switch also adds to the growing list of lawmakers in the National Assembly who have recently changed party affiliations amid shifting political alliances across the country.