Senator Agom Jarigbe, representing Cross River North, has formally defected from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC).

Jarigbe confirmed his defection on Wednesday night after meeting President Bola Tinubu at the State House, alongside Senator Kaila Samaila of Bauchi North, who recently also joined the APC. The meeting was facilitated by Senate President Godswill Akpabio.

Speaking to journalists, Akpabio described the move as an act of patriotism, saying:
“They are supporters of Mr President. The president is the father of the nation and of all political parties. Their defection is driven by the desire to build Nigeria and support policies that have boosted the economy and increased national revenue.”

On his part, Jarigbe stated his decision was motivated by President Tinubu’s performance:
“I am joining APC because the president is doing well, and I want to support him in delivering the dividends of democracy to our people.”

The defection of Jarigbe adds to the growing list of politicians leaving the PDP for both the APC and the African Democratic Congress (ADC), reflecting shifting political alliances ahead of the 2027 general elections.