Two Nigerian senators from Rivers State, Allwell Onyesoh and Barinada Mpigi, have defected from the opposition Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC). The senators announced their defections on the Senate floor during a plenary session, formally crossing over to the APC in the presence of high‑ranking party officials.
Onyesoh, who represents Rivers East Senatorial District, said his decision followed extensive consultations with stakeholders in his constituency. He emphasized that his primary allegiance is to his constituents rather than to any political party. Mpigi, representing Rivers South‑East Senatorial District, cited constitutional provisions and the PDP’s unresolved crises at all levels as reasons for his move, adding that persistent factional disputes within the PDP made continued membership impossible. Both senators assured that their developmental agendas for their districts would remain intact despite the change in party affiliation.
The APC leadership, including the party’s National Secretary and other top officials, were present to receive the defectors. They described the switch as a significant boost to the party’s influence in the South‑South geopolitical zone ahead of the 2027 general elections. The defections further consolidate the APC’s numerical strength in the Senate, while the PDP continues to grapple with internal schisms and a shrinking presence in the Red Chamber.
The PDP’s internal divisions and crises have led to a decline in its fortunes, eroding confidence among its members and prompting defections to other parties. The latest departures are expected to have significant implications for Nigeria’s political landscape, particularly in the South‑South region. Conversely, the APC is poised to capitalize on the PDP’s weaknesses as it seeks to consolidate its hold on power ahead of the 2027 elections, strengthening its structures and building alliances with other political groups to maintain dominance. As the political environment evolves, it remains to be seen how the PDP will respond to these defections and the challenges it faces.
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