In a significant political development, four senators from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) have defected to the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC). The defecting senators are:
- *Senators from Akwa Ibom State:*
- *Senator Etim Aniekan Bassey* (Akwa Ibom North East)
- *Senator Sampson Ekong* (Akwa Ibom South)
- *Senators from Osun State:*
- *Senator Francis Adenigba Fadahunsi* (Osun East)
- *Senator Olubiyi Oluwole Fadeyi* (Osun Central)
The senators' defection letters were read by Senate President Godswill Akpabio during a plenary session on Wednesday, July 23, 2025. The lawmakers cited protracted leadership crises, mistrust, numerous litigations, lack of direction, and divisions within the PDP as reasons for their departure ¹ ².
Impact of the Defection
The defection increases the APC's strength in the Senate to 70 members, further solidifying its majority. This development is expected to enhance the APC's legislative influence and national governance in the coming months ³.
Reaction to the Defection
Senate Leader Opeyemi Bamidele hailed the defections as evidence of democracy at work, emphasizing the APC's commitment to moving Nigeria forward. The APC has welcomed the new members, with prominent party members, including APC National Secretary Ajibola Basiru and former Minister Chris Ngige, attending the plenary session to witness the defection ⁴ ⁵.
