Defection Drama: Taraba Senators Jump Ship to APC, Akpabio Lampoons Minority Leader

 

The Senate was thrown into a flurry of political drama on Wednesday as two Taraba State senators formally defected from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), deepening the majority’s dominance in the 10th Senate.

Senators Shuaibu Lau (Taraba North) and Haruna Manu (Taraba Central) submitted letters of resignation, citing party crises and alignment with national development priorities. Their letters were read on the floor by Senate President Godswill Akpabio.

In his letter, Senator Manu explained that the decision followed “deep and extensive consultations” and a reassessment of Nigeria’s political realities. “I have become convinced that my contributions to the legislative and developmental agenda of my nation will be better advanced on the platform of the All Progressives Congress,” he stated.

Senator Lau similarly cited concerns over PDP’s internal direction. “I believe the APC aligns more closely with my values and vision. Please accept this as formal notification of my defection,” he wrote.

The defections were met with cheers from the APC Senate Caucus, prompting Akpabio to taunt the Minority Leader, Senator Abba Moro.

“I am sure Senator Moro has something to say about this. Please proceed,” Akpabio quipped, drawing laughter from the majority benches.

Responding, Moro sought to downplay the defections, describing them as a predictable post-election trend. “I feel sad that some of my colleagues have decided to leave, but I am not offended. Their explanation of wide consultations is misleading,” he said, affirming his commitment to lead the minority caucus until the end of the 10th Senate.

Unfazed, Akpabio fired back with further sarcasm: “Even if you are the only one remaining, you will lead yourself. That is leadership indeed.”

The latest defections reflect a growing pattern in the 10th Senate, where opposition lawmakers continue to cross over to the ruling party, often citing internal crises or alignment with the federal government’s policies.

Following the move, the Senate composition now stands as: APC – 80; PDP – 21; Labour Party – 2; All Progressives Grand Alliance – 1; New Nigeria Peoples Party – 1; African Democratic Congress – 1.