The number of senators under the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has dropped from 28 to 27 following the defection of Senator Kaila Dahuwa Samaila (Bauchi North) to the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) on Tuesday.
Kaila’s defection marks a major political gain for the APC, which now holds a two-thirds majority in the Senate after securing 73 out of 109 seats.
In a letter addressed to the President of the Senate, Godswill Akpabio, and read during plenary, Senator Kaila cited prolonged internal crises and factionalisation within the PDP as the major reasons for his defection.
He explained that the party’s internal turmoil had “gravely constrained” his ability to effectively serve his constituents and fulfill his legislative responsibilities in good conscience.
“The Peoples Democratic Party has gravely constrained my ability to discharge my constitutional responsibilities effectively and in good conscience,” the senator wrote.
Kaila further stated that his decision to join the APC was driven by a desire to align with a more progressive platform that promotes good governance, unity, and accountability.
“As one deeply committed to the service of our nation and the welfare of my people, I have found it necessary to realign my political engagements with a more progressive platform that embodies good governance, unity, progress, growth, and discipline in the governance of our country.”
According to him, the ongoing reforms initiated by President Bola Tinubu played a key role in his decision. Kaila praised the President’s bold and transformative reforms, describing them as crucial to Nigeria’s recovery and sustainable growth.
“Consequently, I have chosen to join the All Progressives Congress and to lend my full commitment to the reforms of His Excellency, President Bola Tinubu,” he declared.
The Bauchi North lawmaker added that Tinubu’s leadership reflects the decisive direction Nigeria needs at this critical period in its democratic journey.
“These efforts reflect the decisive leadership our country needs. I am confident that these reform efforts align with my legislative ideals and my enduring conviction to contribute meaningfully to Nigeria’s development and democratic advancement,” he said.
With this defection, the Senate’s new composition now stands as follows:
- All Progressives Congress (APC) – 73
- Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) – 27
- Labour Party (LP) – 4
- All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA) – 2
- New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP) – 1
- Social Democratic Party (SDP) – 2
The APC’s strengthened majority further consolidates its control of the 10th National Assembly, giving it a more comfortable margin in legislative decision-making.
According to a 9am News report, this latest development also deepens the internal cracks within the opposition PDP as it continues to grapple with defections at both national and state levels.
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