President Bola Tinubu’s influence on Nigeria’s political terrain continues to deepen, with a wave of defections strengthening the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC). At least 12 lawmakers and multiple governors have abandoned their parties to join the APC in recent weeks, signaling a significant political realignment.
A notable shift occurred in Akwa Ibom State, where ten National Assembly members—formerly affiliated with the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and Young Progressives Party (YPP)—have followed Governor Umo Eno in defecting to the APC. This includes Senators Ekong Sampson and Aniekan Bassey, along with House of Representatives members Okpolupm Etteh, Paul Asuquo, Alphonsus Uduak, Ime Bassey, Martins Esin, Unyime Idem, and Mark Esset. YPP lawmaker Emmanuel Ukpongudo is also among the defectors.
Dr. Ijeoma Arodiogbu, APC National Vice Chairman (South-East), confirmed the planned defections in a statement to The Punch. The lawmakers are expected to submit formal defection letters when the National Assembly reconvenes on June 17.
Governor Eno’s recent move from the PDP to the APC, which he said followed “three months of wide consultations,” was framed as an effort to foster inclusive governance and strengthen alignment with the federal administration. However, his defection has stirred mixed reactions within Akwa Ibom. Three state commissioners resigned in protest, and former governor Udom Emmanuel—Eno’s political mentor—refused to attend the defection ceremony, reiterating his allegiance to the PDP.
“We left with the governor on June 6, including one member from the YPP. There was no pressure from any quarter,” one defector stated, downplaying suggestions of coercion.
In Edo State, Labour Party Senator Neda Imasuen also announced his intention to join the APC on June 12, citing disorganization within the LP and a need to align with Tinubu’s federal development vision, encapsulated in the Renewed Hope Agenda.
Similarly, in Nasarawa State, Senator Ahmed Wadada is expected to exit the Social Democratic Party (SDP), citing ideological differences with former Kaduna Governor Nasir el-Rufai, who recently joined the SDP. Wadada acknowledged el-Rufai’s political stature but questioned his ideological consistency, saying he seeks a party more in line with his values.
These developments mark a growing consolidation of power around President Tinubu, further reshaping Nigeria’s political landscape ahead of the 2027 general elections.
