Major shake-up in PDP, APC, LP as 10 senators set to change parties 

Major shake-up in PDP, APC, LP as 10 senators set to change parties 

As Nigerian serving politicians scramble to secure their political careers, News Week Nigeria reports that a significant political realignment is currently ongoing in the Nigerian Senate, as no fewer than 10 serving senators are reportedly set to defect from their current political parties in preparation for the 2027 general elections.

This wave of defections is expected to further reshape the dynamics within the Red Chamber, with the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) and the recently revitalized African Democratic Congress (ADC) emerging as the major beneficiaries.

According to inside sources and recent political activities, the defections will come from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Labour Party (LP), and Social Democratic Party (SDP).

Labour Party Senators Set for ADC

Among those expected to leave the LP are Senator Ireti Kingibe (FCT), Senator Victor Umeh (Anambra Central), and Senator Tony Nwoye (Anambra North). The trio had earlier attended a high-profile event marking the takeover of ADC leadership by a coalition of defecting politicians, signaling their likely shift to the opposition party.

Kingibe is reportedly preparing to announce her defection on the floor of the Senate in the coming days.

SDP Senator Eyes APC Return

Senator Aliyu Ahmed Wadada (Nasarawa West), currently with the SDP, is also expected to rejoin the APC. Wadada, who left the APC in 2020 after losing the party’s ticket, won his Senate seat on the platform of the SDP. However, with eyes set on contesting the 2027 governorship election in Nasarawa State, he is now gearing up for a return to the ruling party.

His planned defection is reportedly causing tension within the APC in Nasarawa, as his ambition to succeed Governor Abdullahi Sule is stirring internal rivalry. Wadada, who chairs the Senate Public Accounts Committee, is expected to step down from the role after crossing over, as the position is traditionally reserved for opposition lawmakers.

PDP Faces Exodus in Akwa Ibom, Osun

Two PDP senators from Akwa Ibom — Ekong Sampson (Akwa Ibom South) and Aniekan Etim Bassey (Akwa Ibom North East) — have also pledged allegiance to the APC, following the recent defection of Akwa Ibom State Governor Umo Eno. While the formal announcement on the Senate floor is pending, both senators have reportedly concluded arrangements to make their defection public.

In Osun State, all three PDP senators are reportedly on the verge of decamping to the APC. They include Oluwole Olubiyi Fadeyi (Osun Central), Francis Adenigba Fadahunsi (Osun East), and Kamorudeen Olalere Oyewumi (Osun West). Governor Ademola Adeleke is said to be in advanced consultations regarding his own possible move to the ruling party, fueling speculations of a broader exodus.

However, political observers suggest that Senator Oyewumi’s defection might be delayed, as he could lose a strategic position currently held by virtue of his membership in the opposition.

Senate Minority Leader May Join ADC

In another potential blow to the PDP, Senate Minority Leader Abba Moro (Benue South) is rumored to be considering a move to the ADC. His close relationship with former Senate President David Mark — now the interim national chairman of the ADC — is believed to be a major factor influencing his decision.

Political Landscape to Shift

If these defections are confirmed, the numerical strength of the APC in the Senate, already dominant with 68 out of 109 seats, will increase further — consolidating its legislative control ahead of 2027.

Analysts say the looming shake-up underscores growing dissatisfaction within the PDP and LP ranks and reflects the intense behind-the-scenes jockeying for political advantage as the country heads into another election cycle.

The coming weeks are expected to be crucial as these political movements unfold in the Senate chambers.