JUST IN: APC Secures Two-Thirds Majority in House as Six Lawmakers Defect from PDP, LP (Full List)

The ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) has strengthened its grip on the House of Representatives, securing a two-thirds majority following the defection of six lawmakers from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and Labour Party (LP). Speaker Abbas Tajudeen announced the defections during Thursday’s plenary after reading separate letters submitted by the lawmakers.

Those who joined the APC are Daniel Ago (LP, Plateau), Chidi Obetta (PDP, Enugu), Anayo Onwuegbu (PDP, Enugu), Dennis Agbo (PDP, Enugu), Martins George (PDP, Enugu), and Nnaji Nnolim (PDP, Enugu). Five of the defectors are from Enugu State, while one represents Plateau State.

In their letters, the lawmakers cited “irreconcilable differences” and internal divisions within their former parties as the reason for their defection. They were subsequently received by the Speaker and welcomed into the APC amid applause from party members in the chamber.

The defections further consolidate the APC’s dominance in the National Assembly, granting the party a two-thirds majority and reducing the opposition’s influence on legislative debates.

The move comes amid deepening internal crises in both the PDP and LP. The PDP continues to battle factional disputes across several states, while the LP remains mired in a leadership struggle between its National Chairperson, Julius Abure, and a rival faction led by Nenadi Usman.

Observers view the development as part of a broader political realignment ahead of the 2027 general elections, particularly in the South East, where the APC has intensified efforts to expand its base. Enugu State Governor Peter Mbah, who recently joined the APC from the PDP, and the party’s National Chairperson, Nentawe Yilwatda, were in the chamber to witness the proceedings.

The wave of defections has also renewed debate over Section 68(1)(g) of the 1999 Constitution, which allows lawmakers to switch parties only if divisions exist within their current political platform. With this latest development, the APC now firmly controls the House, cementing its legislative authority ahead of future political battles.