Deputy Minority Whip, Ibrahim Abdullahi Danbaba, has defected from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to the All Progressive Congress (APC).
Mr Danbaba announced his defection on Wednesday through Senate President Ahmad Lawan during plenary.
The Sokoto South Senatorial representative cited the crisis rocking the opposition party at the zonal level, as reason for defecting to the ruling party.
“I write to formally inform you and distinguished colleagues of my decision to join the All Progressives Congress (APC) from the Peoples’ Democratic Party (PDP),” the lawmaker wrote. “My decision is anchored on the continuing multifaceted crisis that have bedevilled the PDP, especially at the zonal level which has created not only credibility problems, but has undermined party discipline, cohesion and focus.
“The situation at the state level has not helped matters either as depicted by lack of political sanity, focus and credible leadership.
“I have in APC, the political ideology in consonance with my personal political philosophy. This Ideology also seems the best suited to meet the expectations and aspirations of my constituents.
“While thanking you, Mr. President, please, accept the assurances of my highest consideration,” he concluded.
Mr Lawan suppressed attempts by opposition lawmakers to halt the defection, arguing that it was in line with the constitutional provisions for decamping to other political parties.
The top lawmaker also rebuffed prayers for the declaration of Danbaba’s seat vacant, saying his defection is valid and excusable under the law.
The ruling party now has 71 lawmakers while the opposition has 37 on its side.
This is coming at a time federal high courts in Abuja are declaring vacant seats of lawmakers who dumped the platform they were elected on.
