Benue State House of Assembly Majority Leader Thomas Dugeri has defected from the All Progressives Congress (APC) to the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), citing a commitment to collaborate with stakeholders ahead of the 2027 general Elections.
Dugeri, who represents Kwande West State Constituency, was formally received into the PDP on Tuesday at the Abuja residence of former Benue State Governor Samuel Ortom. The presentation was made by Adzua Ashongo, the PDP’s deputy chairman in Benue State, marking Dugeri’s first meeting with Ortom since announcing his departure from the ruling party.
Addressing party leaders and supporters, Dugeri expressed gratitude for the reception extended to him and his allies. “I remain committed to the PDP and will work with other party leaders and members to strengthen the party ahead of the 2027 elections,” he said. He described the welcome from party members in Kwande and across Benue as encouraging, adding that his decision was driven by a desire to advance the PDP’s objectives in the next electoral cycle.
Ortom, a prominent PDP figure in the state, welcomed Dugeri and his supporters, assuring them of equal opportunities within the party structure. He characterized the PDP as a broad political family where every member has a role in rebuilding the party’s fortunes. The former governor urged unity and collective effort to reposition the PDP for a return to power in Benue State in 2027.
The defection signals a notable shift in Benue’s legislative dynamics, where the APC currently holds a majority. Dugeri’s role as Majority Leader amplifies the political weight of his move, potentially influencing alignment among other lawmakers. Analysts view the development as part of early realignments shaping the state’s competitive landscape ahead of the next election cycle.
Both parties have yet to issue formal statements on the implications for assembly leadership or committee compositions. The PDP, which governed Benue until 2023, has been working to consolidate its base following its loss of the governorship and legislative majority. Dugeri’s entry adds a high-profile incumbent to its ranks as mobilization efforts intensify.
The lawmaker’s constituency, Kwande West, has historically been a contested area, and his defection may test the APC’s organizational strength at the grassroots. For the PDP, the challenge lies in integrating new entrants while maintaining cohesion among long-standing members.
As political activities accelerate toward 2027, further defections and strategic alliances are anticipated across Benue’s three senatorial districts. The assembly’s leadership structure may face scrutiny in the coming weeks, with the speakership and principal offices potentially subject to negotiation reflecting the shifting balance.
