In a significant political development, three members of the House of Representatives have defected from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to the All Progressives Congress (APC), further tilting the balance of power within the lower chamber of the National Assembly.
During Wednesday’s plenary session, Speaker Tajudeen Abbas formally announced the defections of the lawmakers, marking another shift in Nigeria’s ever-dynamic political landscape.
The defectors include:
Taofeek Ajilesoro, who represents the Ife Central/East/North/South Federal Constituency of Osun State.
Omirin Olusanya, representing the Atakunmosa East/West and Ilesha East/West Federal Constituency, also in Osun State.
Marcus Onobun, representing the Esan Central/Esan West/Igueben Federal Constituency in Edo State.
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While the lawmakers did not immediately provide detailed reasons for their defection, sources close to the matter cited ongoing internal crises and factional disputes within the PDP, as well as strategic realignments ahead of the 2027 general elections, as likely motivations.
The APC, which remains the ruling party at the federal level, has been consolidating its strength across various geopolitical zones, especially in the South-West, where Osun State is a key battleground.
The latest defections are expected to trigger political reactions from both parties, as well as within the affected constituencies.
The PDP is yet to issue an official response as of the time of this report.
More to follow…