By Gift Chapi Odekina, Abuja
Three members of the House of Representatives on Wednesday formally dumped the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), defecting to the Peoples Redemption Party (PRP) and the African Democratic Congress (ADC), in what appears to be a fresh wave of political realignments ahead of the 2027 general elections.
The defections were announced during plenary, just a day after lawmakers resumed from the Eid-el-Kabir recess, further underscoring shifting loyalties within the National Assembly.
Rabilu Bala, who represents Jama’are/Itas-Gadau Federal Constituency of Bauchi State, announced his resignation from the APC and his decision to join the PRP.
Speaker of the House, Tajudeen Abbas, who read Bala’s letter on the floor of the chamber, said the lawmaker cited persistent internal disagreements within the APC and a desire to better serve his constituents on a more suitable political platform.
Bala said his decision followed wide consultations with political stakeholders in his constituency and was informed by developments within the party at both state and national levels.
In a separate development, Abubakar Zango, representing Yola North/Yola South/Girei Federal Constituency of Adamawa State, also resigned from the APC and defected to the ADC.
Zango said his decision was guided by conscience and national interest, adding that he remained committed to effective representation despite the change in party affiliation.
Similarly, Abdullahi, representing Dukku/Nafada Federal Constituency of Gombe State, also left the APC for the ADC.
The latest defections add to a growing pattern of political movement within the National Assembly as politicians reposition ahead of the next general election.
While the APC still maintains a majority in both chambers, the exits have drawn attention to internal tensions in some state chapters, including concerns over party management, succession struggles and internal democracy.
The PRP, with ideological roots linked to the late Aminu Kano’s political movement, has been working to rebuild its relevance, particularly in northern Nigeria.
The ADC, on its part, has recently gained visibility as an alternative platform for politicians dissatisfied with the country’s dominant parties amid emerging coalition talks.
Although the APC leadership has consistently dismissed fears of instability within its ranks, opposition parties say the defections reflect growing dissatisfaction within the ruling party.
