In a significant realignment within Nigeria’s political landscape, three senators from the opposition Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) on Wednesday formally defected to the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) during plenary at the Senate chamber of the National Assembly, Abuja.

 

The senators, Akpan Ekong Samson (Akwa Ibom South), Olubiyi Fadeyi (Osun Central), and Francis Adenigba Fadahunsi (Osun East) — announced their defection in separate letters read aloud by Senate President Godswill Akpabio during the session.

 

Senator Francis Fadahunsi, a ranking lawmaker from Osun East, cited ideological alignment with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda as the driving force behind his decision.

 

“I believe in the values of the All Progressives Congress (APC) and its contributions to our dear country and constituents, particularly the renewed hope agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu,” he stated.

 

 

 

Fadahunsi expressed optimism about his ability to help secure electoral victories for the APC, declaring his commitment to national progress and inclusive governance.

 

Senator Olubiyi Fadeyi of Osun Central pointed to the deepening leadership crisis within the PDP as his reason for switching parties. He described the party’s internal disputes, unresolved litigations, and a deteriorating political climate as unsustainable.

 

“My constituents are yearning for the dividends of democracy — something the PDP has failed to deliver. I cannot continue in a climate of violence, distrust, and unresolved crises,” Fadeyi said, adding that the move was necessary to better serve the people of Osun Central.

 

 

 

The third defector, Senator Akpan Ekong Samson, also threw his weight behind the APC’s governance approach, aligning with the party’s policies and national development goals.

 

Prominent APC figures, including the party’s National Secretary, Senator Ajibola Basiru; Osun State APC Chairman, Tajudeen Lawal; and several House of Representatives members from Osun State, were present in the Senate gallery to witness the moment.

 

The defections reduce the PDP’s representation from Osun State in the Senate to just one — Senator Kamorudeen Olalere Oyewumi (Osun West), who currently serves as the Deputy Minority Leader.

 

Following the announcements, APC senators erupted in jubilation, warmly welcoming the new members with applause, handshakes, and photo sessions with the Senate President.

 

Senate President Akpabio, along with Senate Leader Michael Opeyemi Bamidele, congratulated the defectors and assured them of full integration and active participation within the APC Senate caucus.

 

“This is not just a victory for our party, but a step toward a more united and purposeful Senate,” Akpabio remarked.

 

 

 

The mass defection signals a potential shift in parliamentary dynamics ahead of the 2027 elections and underscores the growing influence of President Tinubu’s administration within Nigeria’s political class.