PDP Senator Friday Konbowei dumps party for APC

The All Progressives Congress (APC) has further consolidated its influence in the National Assembly following the defection of Senator Friday Konbowei, representing Bayelsa Central, from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to the ruling party.

Senator Konbowei formally announced his defection on Thursday in a letter addressed to Senate President Godswill Akpabio, which was read on the Senate floor shortly before the day’s session ended.

In the letter, Konbowei explained that his decision was driven by the persistent internal crises and leadership tussles within the PDP, which, according to him, have made it impossible to remain in the party.

The defection marks another significant win for the APC, which has in recent weeks expanded its strength in the 10th Senate through a wave of defections from opposition lawmakers.

With Konbowei’s move, the APC now holds a commanding two-thirds majority of 74 seats, tightening its control in the upper chamber and reinforcing President Bola Tinubu’s legislative support base.

The PDP’s representation has dropped to 27 senators, while the Social Democratic Party and the New Nigeria Peoples Party have one senator each. The All Progressives Grand Alliance retains two seats.

Konbowei’s departure further diminishes the PDP’s influence in the South-South once considered its stronghold and reflects the ongoing political realignments ahead of the 2027 general elections.

In recent weeks, several PDP heavyweights, including governors and senators, have also defected to the APC.