By By Elizabeth Ugbo
A total of 27 lawmakers defected in the House of Representatives on Tuesday in Abuja, as political realignments intensify ahead of the 2027 general elections. The defections, announced by Speaker Tajudeen Abbas during plenary, saw members move across major parties including APC, ADC, APP, and Accord. Most lawmakers cited internal party crises as the reason for their decisions, triggering a significant shift in the composition of the Green Chamber.
Breakdown of Defections by Party
The All Progressives Congress (APC) gained the highest number of defectors. Fourteen lawmakers joined the ruling party, strengthening its influence in the House.
Meanwhile, the African Democratic Congress (ADC) welcomed eight lawmakers. These included five from the PDP, two from the Labour Party (LP), and one from the APC.
In addition, the Action Peoples Party (APP) gained two lawmakers. One defected from the PDP, while the other came from the LP.
Similarly, the Accord Party received two new members, both from the PDP, boosting its presence, especially in Osun State.
Reasons Behind the Defections
Lawmakers blamed internal crises in their former parties for their decisions. Many pointed to unresolved leadership disputes and lack of unity.
As a result, several members chose to switch allegiance to parties they believe offer better political stability. This trend reflects growing tensions within opposition parties.
Full List of Defecting Lawmakers
Lawmakers Who Joined APC
- Aliu Madaki – NNPP → APC (Kano)
- Tijjani Abdulkadir Jobe – NNPP → APC (Kano)
- Mohammed Bassi – PDP → APC (Adamawa)
- Ghali Tijjani Mustapha – NNPP → APC (Kano)
- Shehu Bello – NNPP → APC (Kano)
- Dankawu Idris – NNPP → APC (Kano)
- Hussain Hassan Shehu – NNPP → APC (Kano)
- Rabiu Yusuf – NNPP → APC (Kano)
- Garba Mohammed Chiroma – NNPP → APC (Kano)
- Ibrahim Mohammed (Kano) – NNPP → APC (Kano)
- Jaafaru Yakubu – PDP → APC (Taraba)
- Sadiq Abbas Tafida – PDP → APC (Taraba)
- Ibrahim Mohammed (Kebbi) – PDP → APC (Kebbi)
- Bello Shinkafi – PDP → APC (Zamfara)
Lawmakers Who Joined ADC
- George Ozodinobi – LP → ADC (Anambra)
- Abdussamad Dasuki – PDP → ADC (Sokoto)
- Seyi Sowunmi – LP → ADC (Lagos)
- Harris Okonkwo – LP → ADC (Anambra)
- Yaya Bauchi Tongo – PDP → ADC (Gombe)
- Mustapha Abdullahi – APC → ADC (Kaduna)
- Mani Maishinko Katami – PDP → ADC (Sokoto)
- Umar Yusuf Yabo – PDP → ADC (Sokoto)
Lawmakers Who Joined APP
- Ugochinyere Michael Ikeagwuonu – PDP → APP (Imo)
- Nwogu Mathew – LP → APP (Imo)
Lawmakers Who Joined Accord Party
- Akanni Clement Ademola – PDP → Accord (Osun)
- Oladebo Lanre Olomololaye – PDP → Accord (Osun)
Other Notable Defection
- Philip Agbese – APC → LP (Benue)
Political Implications Ahead of 2027
These defections signal early political maneuvering ahead of the 2027 elections. The APC’s gains could strengthen its legislative dominance.
On the other hand, the ADC and smaller parties are gradually building momentum. This may reshape alliances and electoral strategies in the coming months.
Conclusion
The latest wave of defections highlights deep cracks within several political parties. As politicians reposition themselves, more shifts are likely before the 2027 elections.
