Two lawmakers — Senator Shuaibu Lau (Taraba North) and Senator Haruna Manu (Taraba Central) — formally defected from the Peoples Democratic Party, a move that further deepened the numerical dominance of the APC in the 10th Senate.
Their defections were conveyed in separate letters addressed to the Senate and read by Akpabio during plenary.
Reading Senator Manu’s letter titled “Notification of resignation”, the Senate President said the lawmaker attributed his decision to wide consultations and a reassessment of Nigeria’s political realities.
“I have come to officially announce my defection from the Peoples Democratic Party to the All Progressives Congress. So I write with due respect to formally notify the Senate of my decision to withdraw from the PDP and align myself with the APC.
“The decision followed deep and extensive consultations with my constituency, political associates, key stakeholders and the developmental aspirations of the people I represent.
“I have become convinced that my conscience and contributions to the legislative and developmental agenda of my nation will be better advanced on the platform of the All Progressive Congress.
“I therefore request respectfully that my letter be read on the floor of the Senate and my defection duly noted in the records of the Senate.”
Akpabio also read a similar defection letter from Senator Lau, who cited concerns over the internal direction of the PDP.
The letter read, “I hereby express my intention to defect from the People’s Democratic Party to join the All Progressives Congress, I have become increasingly concerned about the current party’s direction and internal issues.
“I believe the All Progressives Congress aligns more closely with my values and vision. Please accept this letter as formal notification of my defection to the All Progressives Congress.”
Following the reading of the letters, the two senators were warmly received by members of the APC Senate Caucus, drawing cheers from the majority benches.
Akpabio then took a swipe at the opposition, openly mocking the dwindling strength of the minority caucus and inviting Moro to react.
“I am sure Senator Abba Moro has something to say about this. So please proceed,” he teased.
