In a major political shake-up, 24 out of the 26 members of the Akwa Ibom State House of Assembly have defected from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to the All Progressives Congress (APC), citing deep divisions within the PDP’s national leadership.
The mass defection was officially announced during plenary on Tuesday by the Speaker of the House, Rt. Hon. Udeme Otong, who acknowledged receiving formal letters from the defecting lawmakers.
He said the decision was prompted by what the members described as persistent internal crises within the PDP, especially at the level of the National Executive Council.
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Only two lawmakers—Sunday Johnny representing Onna constituency and Uduakobong Ekpo-Ufot of Etinan constituency—remained with the PDP.
According to the Speaker, the lawmakers argued that the unresolved leadership tussles had undermined their ability to effectively serve their constituents and deliver the dividends of democracy.
Quoting Section 109(1)(g) of the 1999 Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria (as amended), Otong said the defections were within constitutional bounds, as they were based on evidence of division within the political party on whose platform the lawmakers were elected.
“You have each indicated that your defection is not out of political convenience or self-interest, but arises from a demonstrable division within the national leadership of the PDP.
“A division which, by your account, has affected party cohesion, disrupted policy direction and hindered your ability to function as effective lawmakers.
“Let me state here that this House remains a symbol of democracy, and it is our collective responsibility to uphold the integrity of the legislative institution.
“Regardless of party lines, we must remain focused on our duty to make laws and decisions that advance the interest of Akwa Ibom people.”
A motion to adopt the Speaker’s address and the letters regarding the party changes was moved by Mr Lawrence Udoide, member representing Ini State Constituency, and seconded by Mr Bassey Bassey of Okobo state constituency.
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