On Tuesday, the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) witnessed the departure of two of its members from the House of Representatives, who have joined the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC).
Husseini Jallo, who represents the Igabi Federal Constituency in Kaduna State, and Adamu Tanko, from the Suleja/Tara/Gurara Federal Constituency in Niger State, cited what they described as ongoing crises within the PDP as the impetus for their decision to defect.
In a letter presented by Speaker Tajudeen Abbas during the plenary session, Jallo expressed that the persistent instability in the opposition party had obstructed his ability to effectively serve his constituents. “Mr. Speaker, your leadership style and my commitment to national unity played a significant role in my decision,” he stated, highlighting that he views the APC as a promising platform for advancing his political career and serving his constituency.
Jallo’s defection marks the second loss for the PDP from Kaduna in recent weeks, following the earlier exit of Amos Magaji.
Tanko echoed similar sentiments, stating that his choice was the result of thorough consultations with political stakeholders in his constituency.
During the session, Minority Leader Kingsley Chinda raised a point of order, asserting that opposition members will continue to demand that the seats of those who defected from their original political parties be declared vacant. He referenced a Supreme Court ruling indicating that any member’s defection must be absolute, arguing that there is no evidence to suggest that the defecting members have followed the proper procedures for their exits.
Deputy Minority Leader Ali Isa emphasized the seriousness of the defection issue, suggesting that the two members should retract their defection letters or face legal action. He asserted that the PDP remains robust as both a party and an opposition force, insisting that “there is no crisis in the PDP.”
Isa further urged the defecting members to act honorably by resigning their positions and submitting themselves to fresh elections in their constituencies.
