In a significant political shift, five members of the Labour Party (LP) in the House of Representatives announced their defection to the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) on Thursday.
The lawmakers who left the LP are Tochukwu Okere (Imo), Donatus Mathew (Kaduna), Bassey Akiba (Cross River), Iyawe Esosa (Edo), and Daulyop Fom (Plateau).
Confirming his decision, Donatus Mathew, representing the Kaura Federal Constituency of Kaduna State, explained that his defection to the APC was motivated by personal conviction. Mathew, who gained attention as a former commercial motorcycle rider after winning his seat in the 2023 elections, stated that while the move might not have unanimous support within his constituency, he believes it is in their best interest.
“You cannot just rely solely on the collective decision of the constituency because people have different levels of understanding,” Mathew said. “I am making this decision based on conviction. Whether you like it or not, there are individuals in the constituency who see this as the right move, while others remain skeptical, awaiting the results.”
The announcement of their defection was formally made during Thursday’s plenary session in the Green Chamber. The Speaker of the House, Tajudeen Abbas, read the lawmakers’ defection letters, marking their official transition to the APC.
This development reflects ongoing realignments within Nigeria’s political landscape as the country navigates its current legislative term.
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