Why I Defected to APC – LP Rep Alfred Iliya

Ajang Alfred Iliya, a member of the House of Representatives from the Labour Party (LP), has explained that a leadership crisis within the party led to his defection to the All Progressives Congress (APC). Iliya, who represents the Jos South/Jos East Federal Constituency, made the announcement in a letter addressed to the Speaker of the House, Tajudeen Abass, which was read out during a plenary session on Tuesday.

In the letter, Iliya stated that his decision was driven by the ongoing crisis within the LP and his belief that joining the APC was in the best interest of both his constituents and the country’s broader development goals. He noted that while his decision was deeply personal, it was motivated by his commitment to national progress. Iliya emphasized that he had been closely observing the policies of the APC, particularly under the leadership of President Bola Tinubu, and found that the party’s focus on infrastructure development, economic growth, and national unity aligned with his vision for Plateau State and Nigeria as a whole.

Iliya expressed confidence that his move to the APC would enable him to better serve his constituency and pursue important development projects in the region. He explained that as a representative, his primary responsibility was to the welfare and progress of his people, and that the Labour Party’s limited influence in the current government structure made it difficult for him to effectively represent his constituents. By joining the ruling party, Iliya believes he will have greater access to federal support for key initiatives in healthcare, education, infrastructure, and security.

The lawmaker further stated that his decision was not driven by personal gain but by a desire to contribute to national progress and advance the needs of Plateau State. He also expressed his hope that his shift to the APC would help build bridges across party lines, fostering greater unity and collaboration for the development of the country.