The political landscape in Nigeria’s upper legislative chamber has shifted further in favour of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), following the defection of four senators from the opposition People’s Democratic Party (PDP).
Senate President Godswill Akpabio read the letters of defection during Wednesday’s plenary session, officially confirming the lawmakers’ switch in allegiance.
The defecting senators are Francis Fadahunsi and Olubiyi Fadeyi, both representing Osun State, along with Akon Eyakenyi and Aniekan Bassey from Akwa Ibom State.
The session witnessed the presence of key APC figures, including the party’s National Secretary, Senator Ajibola Basiru, and former Labour Minister Chris Ngige, as well as several APC members from the House of Representatives, who were admitted into the chamber to observe the proceedings.
With these defections, the APC now commands 70 seats in the Senate, strengthening its legislative dominance. The PDP holds 28 seats, while the Labour Party controls five. The Social Democratic Party has two senators, with one seat each occupied by the All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA) and the New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP). Two seats remain vacant.
Analysts say the defections may have significant implications for legislative dynamics in the lead-up to the 2027 general elections, especially regarding constitutional amendments, policy direction, and party strategies.
