ENUGU, Nigeria (VOICE OF NAIJA)- The Senate President, Godswill Akpabio, has cautioned the All Progressives Congress (APC) on the need to carefully manage its growing membership to avoid internal friction, following the defection of two serving senators from the opposition Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).
Akpabio gave the warning on Thursday during plenary after announcing the defection of Senators Shusibu Isa Lau (Taraba North) and Haruna Manu (Taraba Central) from the PDP to the ruling party.
Reading letters from the lawmakers on the floor of the Senate, Akpabio noted that the increasing influx of politicians into the APC places a responsibility on the party to ensure unity and effective internal coordination.
He also observed that opposition parties appear to be watching the ruling party closely, with some already positioning themselves for possible defection.
Earlier, Senator Lau, in his letter, attributed his decision to quit the PDP to concerns over the party’s internal direction and unresolved issues.
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“I hereby express my intention to defect from the People’s Democratic Party to the All Progressives Congress,” Lau wrote.
“I have become increasingly concerned about the direction of the party on internal matters.”
Similarly, Senator Manu said his decision followed extensive consultations and a reassessment of the political and developmental needs of his constituents.
Manu stated, “With due respect, I formally notify the Senate of my decision to withdraw my membership from the PDP and align myself with the All Progressives Congress.
“This decision comes after deep reflection, consultations with my constituents, political associates and key stakeholders.”
The latest defections further consolidate the APC’s dominance in the Senate.
With the changes, the composition of the Red Chamber now stands at APC – 80; PDP – 21; Labour Party – 2; All Progressives Grand Alliance – 1; New Nigeria Peoples Party – 1; and African Democratic Congress – 1.