July 03, (THEWILL) — Seven lawmakers in the House of Representatives, including six members of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and a member of the Young Progressives Party (YPP), have defected to the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC).
THEWILL reports that the defected lawmakers from Akwa Ibom State include Hon. Unyime Idem (Ukanafun/Orukanam Federal Constituency), Hon. Esin Martins Etim (Oron/Mbo/Okobo/Urue Offong/Oruko/Udung Uko Federal Constituency), Hon. Ekpo Paul Asuquo (Etinan/Nsit Ibom/Nsit Ubium Federal Constituency), Hon. Uduak Odudoh (Ikot Abasi/Mkpat Enin/Eastern Obolo Federal Constituency), Hon. Etteh Ikpong (Eket/Onna/Esit Eket/Ibeno Federal Constituency), Hon. Okon Ime Bassey (Itu/Ibiono Ibom Federal Constituency), and Hon. Emmanuel Udo of the YPP (Ikono/Ini Federal Constituency).
They officially announced their defection in separate letters read at the House plenary on Thursday by Speaker Tajudeen Abbas.
In their respective letters, the lawmakers cited escalating internal crises within their parties, particularly within the PDP regarding the Office of the National Secretary, where multiple factions lay claim to the position.
They described the situation as irreconcilable, prompting their decision to resign from the party, a move they claim is justified under Section 68(1)(g) of the Nigerian Constitution.
The YPP lawmaker also attributed his defection to unresolved leadership crises in his party.
Reacting to the development, the House Minority Leader, Kingsley Chinda, raised a point of order, expressing deep concern over the defections and the state of Nigeria’s democracy.
While acknowledging that Section 40 of the Constitution guarantees freedom of association, he reminded the House that Section 68(1)(g) outlines conditions and consequences for such political moves.
Chinda emphasised that the Supreme Court has provided legal clarity on what constitutes a legitimate division within a party and insisted that, legally, no such division exists within the PDP at present. He urged the Speaker to act in accordance with the Constitution and existing court rulings when addressing the defections.
Felix Ifijeh is a journalist with years of professional reporting experience. Known for his keen news sense, compelling storytelling and commitment to accurate, impactful reporting, he has built a reputation for turning leads into clear, engaging, and well-structured reports that resonate with readers. His work reflects deep newsroom experience and a commitment to accurate, impactful journalism.
