In a significant development, two members of the House of Representatives, Hon. Jallo Hussaini Mohammed (Kaduna) and Hon. Adamu Tanko (Niger), have officially defected from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to the All Progressives Congress (APC). The defections, announced during a House plenary session, underscore the internal strife within the PDP and the perceived growing appeal of the APC.

Hon. Jallo Hussaini Mohammed, representing the Igabi Federal Constituency of Kaduna State, conveyed his decision in a letter read by Speaker Tajudeen Abass. Mohammed highlighted his appreciation for his former PDP colleagues but emphasized that the party's persistent internal challenges rendered his continued membership untenable. He stated, "Your dedication to national unity, good governance, and legislative excellence inspires my belief that the All Progressives Congress is the appropriate platform to further my legislative and constituency development agenda." Mohammed also affirmed his commitment to his constituents, asserting that the move to the APC would better align him with leadership and policies beneficial to the Igabi Federal Constituency.

Echoing similar sentiments, Hon. Adamu Tanko, representing the Gurara/Suleja/Tafa Federal Constituency of Niger State, also announced his departure from the PDP for the APC. In his letter, Tanko explained that his decision was driven by a desire to align with a party that shares his vision for national development. "By joining the APC, I hope to align more closely with the leadership and policy framework that will benefit the people of my constituency and our nation at large," Tanko stated, emphasizing his commitment to cross-party collaboration for the effective representation of his constituents.

These defections occurred amidst increasing concerns regarding internal divisions and leadership struggles within the PDP. Political analysts suggest that the party's inability to resolve these internal conflicts may precipitate further defections in the months ahead. The APC, on the other hand, has welcomed the new members, viewing their decision as a testament to the party's expanding influence and dedication to national progress.

However, the defections were met with opposition from within the House. Minority Leader Kingsley Chinda raised a constitutional point of order, arguing that the defections did not adhere to established constitutional processes. Chinda cited a Supreme Court judgment stipulating that defections must be complete and supported by clear evidence of resignation from the former party and membership in the new party. Deputy Minority Leader Ali Isa JC echoed these concerns, suggesting that the defecting members should either withdraw their letters or face potential litigation. Isa JC maintained that the PDP remains a strong party without internal crises and that the defecting members should resign and seek a fresh mandate from their constituents.

Speaker Abbas Tajudeen ultimately ruled Chinda out of order and congratulated the defecting members. With the addition of Jallo and Tanko, the number of PDP representatives who have switched to the APC in the 10th National Assembly rises to six. Other recent defectors include Salisu Koko (Kebbi), Amos Magaji (Kaduna), Chris Nkwonta (Abia), and Eriatheke Ibori-Suenu (Delta).

These defections highlight the fluid political landscape and ongoing realignments as parties position themselves ahead of future elections. They also raise important questions about party stability, internal conflict resolution, and the representation of constituents' interests in a multi-party system.