Four PDP Lawmakers Join APM

The recent wave of defections in the House of Representatives got stronger on Thursday. Four lawmakers from Bauchi State left the Peoples Democratic Party for the Allied Peoples Movement. This shows changing political loyalties as the 2027 general election approaches.

The defections were announced during the plenary session. Speaker Tajudeen Abbas read letters from the lawmakers informing the House of their decision to leave the PDP.

The lawmakers are Muhammad Shehu, who represents Zaki Federal Constituency; Aliyu Garu from Bauchi Federal Constituency; Sani Tanko from Shira/Giade Federal Constituency; and Mansur Soro from Darazo/Ganjuwa Federal Constituency.

In their letters, they mentioned “internal party squabbles” and the “need to provide effective representation” to their constituents.

These defections highlight the ongoing political changes in the National Assembly. Lawmakers are adjusting their positions as they prepare for upcoming elections.

The move by these four Bauchi lawmakers is important since the PDP has been strong in the state. It comes at a time when political activities are increasing around the state's power situation.

This latest development follows several defections recorded in the House over the past week. On Tuesday, eight lawmakers announced they were leaving the PDP for the APM. Three others switched from the APC to the PDP and the Nigeria Democratic Congress.

On Wednesday, three more members left the APC to join the Peoples Redemption Party and the African Democratic Congress. The ongoing movement across party lines is raising questions about new political coalitions and alliances as the election cycle approaches.

Party defections are common in Nigeria's politics, but the recent surge is getting attention due to its timing and number of lawmakers involved. Political watchers say many lawmakers are looking at their political futures because of internal issues in some parties, leadership conflicts, and the rise of new political groups.

The defections are happening while opposition parties struggle with their own challenges. Smaller parties are also trying to grow by bringing in sitting lawmakers.

For the PDP, losing four federal lawmakers from Bauchi is another blow. The party is trying to rebuild after disputes that came after the 2023 general election.

On the flip side, the APM seems to be benefiting from these changes in the House. They have gained several lawmakers in recent days.

With about a year of legislative work left before the next election, all eyes will be on whether this trend of defections continues. It could change the balance of power in the House of Representatives.