By Abiola Olawale
In yet another blow to the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), two members of the House of Representatives defected to the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) on Tuesday, March 18, 2025.
The lawmakers cited internal divisions within their former party as the primary reason for their departure.
The New Diplomat reports that the defections were formally announced during a plenary session at the House of Representatives.
Speaker of the House, Tajudeen Abbas, read letters from the defecting lawmakers—Hon. Jallo Hussaini Mohammed, representing Igabi Federal Constituency of Kaduna State, and Hon. Adamu Tanko, representing Gurara/Suleja/Tafa Federal Constituency of Niger State—confirming their switch to the APC.
Both lawmakers expressed frustration with what they called the ongoing crisis within the PDP, which they described as a barrier for them to effectively serve and represent their constituents.
In his letter, Hon. Jallo Hussaini Mohammed stated, “The persistent internal challenges within the PDP have made it increasingly difficult to fulfil my mandate. I believe the APC offers a more stable platform to pursue the interests of my constituents and contribute to national development.”
Similarly, Hon. Adamu Tanko emphasized his desire to align with a party that shares his vision, noting, “Joining the APC allows me to work under a leadership framework that prioritizes progress for both my constituency and the nation at large.”
The defections sparked mixed reactions in the House. Deputy Minority Leader Ali Isa JC contested the move, arguing that the PDP remains a united and formidable opposition party.
He urged the Speaker to declare the lawmakers’ seats vacant under Section 68 of the 1999 Constitution, which governs the conditions for lawmakers to lose their seats due to defection.
However, the speaker proceeded with the defection without an immediate response o this demand.
This comes after a member of the House of Representatives, Amos Gwamna Magaji, in February 2025 announced his decision to leave PDP for the APC.
Also, Senator Ned Nwoko, the lawmaker representing Delta North Senatorial District of Delta State in the Senate, dumped the PDP for the APC recently.
