APC Loses Lawmakers to PRP and ADC

The ruling All Progressives Congress faced new defections on Wednesday in the House of Representatives. Two lawmakers officially left the party, showing how political changes are heating up ahead of the 2027 general elections.

This happened just a day after the National Assembly resumed its sessions following the Sallah break. During this time, many political leaders across the country have been meeting, forming coalitions, and planning for the upcoming elections.

At the sitting on Wednesday, Rabilu Bala, who represents Jama’are/Itas-Gadau Federal Constituency in Bauchi State, announced he was leaving the APC for the Peoples Redemption Party. The Speaker of the House, Tajudeen Abbas, read Bala’s letter to the chamber. Bala said he made this choice due to ongoing disagreements within the APC and his desire to find a political platform that would help him serve his constituents better.

Bala’s letter explained that his decision came after talks with political stakeholders in his constituency. He mentioned that it was based on “concerns over developments within the party at both the state and national levels.”

In another case, Abubakar Zango, who represents Yola North/Yola South/Girei Federal Constituency in Adamawa State, also announced he was resigning from the APC and moving to the ADC. In his letter, Zango said he was guided by his conscience and what he called the broader national interest. He promised to continue working hard in his legislative duties and assured his constituents that he would remain committed to effective representation.

Similarly, Abdullahi, who represents Dukku/Nafada Federal Constituency in Gombe State, also left the APC for the ADC. These defections add to the list of political shifts gaining speed in recent months as politicians begin to position themselves for the 2027 elections.

Even though the APC has a strong majority in both chambers of the National Assembly, recent events have shown some internal problems in various state chapters of the party. Issues around internal democracy, leadership, and succession plans have caused tension.

The PRP is one of Nigeria’s oldest parties, with roots going back to the movement led by Mallam Aminu Kano. In recent years, it has been working to strengthen its presence in northern Nigeria. The ADC, on the other hand, is becoming a choice for politicians looking for alternatives to the main political parties as coalition talks continue among opposition leaders.

Political analysts believe these recent defections might signal more changes ahead as parties prepare for the next election cycle. While some lawmakers have pointed to internal crises as reasons for their exits, others seem to be aligning with new political groups and alliances that will influence the race for power in 2027.

The leadership of the APC has downplayed worries about defections, saying the party remains strong and unified despite some departures. However, opposition parties see these changes as proof of growing unhappiness within the ruling party and a chance to broaden their political influence.

With less than two years until the next general election, all eyes will likely stay on the National Assembly and the overall political scene as parties work to build support and strengthen their structures across Nigeria.