The All Progressives Congress (APC) strengthened its grip on the Nigerian Senate on Wednesday, increasing its seats to 70 following the defection of four lawmakers from the opposition Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).
The defectors—Senators Francis Fadahunsi (Osun East), Oluwole Olubiyi (Osun Central), Aniekan Bassey (Akwa Ibom North East), and Ekong Samson (Akwa Ibom South)—formally announced their exit from the PDP during plenary. Their resignation letters were read by Senate President Godswill Akpabio, who directed the Clerk of the Senate to update the official records accordingly.
With the new development, the composition of the 10th Senate now stands at: APC – 70, PDP – 28, Labour Party – 5, Social Democratic Party (SDP) – 2, New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP) – 1, and All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA) – 1.
The defections were witnessed by key APC chieftains, including National Secretary Senator Ajibola Basiru, former Labour Minister Senator Chris Ngige, and several members of the House of Representatives who attended the plenary in solidarity.
Analysts describe the development as a significant blow to the PDP, especially in Akwa Ibom State, a region long regarded as a party stronghold. The APC, on the other hand, is poised to consolidate its influence in the region.
In his resignation letter, Senator Aniekan Bassey cited Sections 40 and 68(1)(g) of the 1999 Constitution, describing his decision as “deeply considered” and necessary in light of recent political developments in his constituency and the internal crisis within the PDP.
“This decision has become imperative in view of the prevailing political developments both in my constituency and within the party structure, which has been fractured beyond redemption,” he said.
Senator Ekong Samson, also from Akwa Ibom, echoed similar sentiments, stating that political realignments in the state and the recent defection of Governor Umoh Eno to the APC informed his decision.
“Politics is a game of interest, and if I may add, circumstances,” Samson said. “In Akwa Ibom State, the earth has moved with the convergence of principal political players on the APC platform. My people have high hopes for commensurate reward systems from the APC power matrix.”
Senate President Akpabio, a former Governor of Akwa Ibom and APC stalwart, welcomed the defectors with enthusiasm.
“Senator Aniekan Bassey has now joined the APC. I welcome him with open arms. He has depleted the rank and file of the left-hand side to populate the right-hand side,” Akpabio said.
Senate Leader Opeyemi Bamidele also welcomed the new members, hinting at more defections to come.
“I sincerely welcome our colleagues to the All Progressives Congress. This cannot be the end, more are coming,” he stated.
