Two serving Senators from Taraba State have defected from the Peoples Democratic Party to the ruling All Progressives Congress further strengthening the APC majority in the Senate.
The lawmakers Senator Shusibu Isa Lau representing Taraba North and Senator Haruna Manu representing Taraba Central announced their defections on Thursday. Their decisions were formally communicated in separate letters addressed to the Senate and read during plenary by the Senate President Senator Godswill Akpabio.
In his letter Senator Lau said his defection was driven by growing concerns over the internal direction of the PDP. He explained that unresolved internal issues within the party had made it difficult for him to continue his political journey under its platform. According to him joining the APC was a decision taken in the interest of effective representation and political ility.
Senator Manu on his part said his decision followed extensive consultations with his constituents political associates and other key stakeholders. He stated that after deep reflection and an assessment of current political realities he concluded that aligning with the APC would better serve the developmental aspirations of the people he represents. Manu described the move as a strategic decision aimed at ensuring greater opportunities for progress and inclusion.
Following the announcements Senate President Akpabio advised the APC leadership to manage its expanding membership carefully in order to avoid internal conflicts. He noted that as the ruling party continues to grow it must ensure unity and discipline to sustain effective governance. Akpabio also remarked that opposition parties are closely watching developments within the APC with some waiting for the right moment to join the ruling party.
With the latest defections the balance of power in the Senate has shifted further in favour of the APC. The current composition now stands at 80 Senators for the APC 21 for the PDP 2 for the Labour Party and one each for APGA NNPP and ADC.
The defections highlight ongoing realignments within Nigeria political landscape as lawmakers reposition ahead of future electoral contests.
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