2027 : Eight Reps members defect to APC, PDP

In what appears to be the beginning of major political realignments ahead of the 2027 general elections, eight members of the House of Representatives on Tuesday officially switched party affiliations during plenary.

Six of the defectors, all representing constituencies in Delta State, announced their exit from the opposition Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and declared their allegiance to the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC). Meanwhile, two lawmakers from Enugu State dumped the Labour Party in favor of the PDP.

Their defection letters were read aloud on the floor of the House, drawing mixed reactions from fellow lawmakers and signaling a potential shift in political dynamics within the National Assembly.

Leading the defectors from Delta State was Nicholas Mutu (Bomadi), the longest-serving member of the House and Leader of the Southern regional caucus. Mutu has represented his constituency under the PDP platform since 1999.

Other defecting members include Nnamdi Ezechi (Ndokwa/Nkwuani), Jonathan Okodiko (Isoko), Thomas Eriyetomi (Warri), Julius Pondi (Burutu), and Victor Nwokolo (Ika North and South).

The Labour Party members defecting to the PDP are Mark Obetta (Nsukka/Igboeze South of Enugu state and Dennis Agbo (Igbo Eze North/Udenu).

The defectors attributed their actions to the lingering crisis in both the PDP and the Labour Party, and the need to find a more conducive platform to represent their constituents.