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 lawmakers cited internal divisions within the PDP and the need to work with the federal government to effectively serve their constituents.
The defections were announced on the floor of the Senate during a plenary session, where the senators formally crossed over to the APC in the presence of high-ranking party officials. Onyesoh, representing Rivers East Senatorial District, stated that 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 defection. He maintained that the persistent factional disputes within the PDP had made continued membership impossible. Both senators assured that their developmental agendas for their districts would remain intact, despite their 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 move 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 has been facing internal divisions and crises, which have led to a decline in its fortunes in recent times. The party’s inability to resolve its internal issues has resulted in a loss of confidence among its members, leading to defections to other parties. The latest defections are expected to have significant implications for the political landscape in Nigeria, particularly in the South-South region.
The APC, on the other hand, is poised to capitalize on the PDP’s weaknesses, as it seeks to consolidate its hold on power ahead of the 2027 elections. The party’s leadership has been working to strengthen its structures and build alliances with other political groups, in a bid to maintain its dominance in Nigerian politics. As the political landscape continues to evolve, it remains to be seen how the PDP will respond to the latest defections and the challenges facing the party.
