Wednesday, June 25, 2025 - A total of 24 out of the 26 members of the Akwa Ibom State House of Assembly have defected from the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, to the All Progressives Congress, APC, in the state.
The remaining two PDP lawmakers, Mr Sunday Johnny of Onna
state constituency and Mr Uduakobong Ekpo-Ufot of Etinan state constituency,
did not defect to APC.
Speaker of the State House of Assembly, Mr Udeme Otong,
revealed this during Tuesday’s plenary, stating that the affected honourable
members had cited division within the national structure of PDP, particularly
within its National Executive Council, as the basis for their decision to leave
the party under which they were elected.
The Speaker said that the situation had made it difficult
for lawmakers to effectively represent their constituencies and deliver the
benefits of democracy to them.
Citing Section 109(1)(g) of the Constitution of the Federal
Republic of Nigeria, 1999 (as amended), Otong said: “It is upon this
constitutional provision that I have weighed your written submissions.
“You have each indicated that your defection is not out of
political convenience or self-interest, but arises from a demonstrable division
within the national leadership of the PDP.
“A division which, by your account, has affected party
cohesion, disrupted policy direction and hindered your ability to function as
effective lawmakers.
“Let me state here that this House remains a symbol of
democracy, and it is our collective responsibility to uphold the integrity of
the legislative institution.
“Regardless of party lines, we must remain focused on our
duty to make laws and decisions that advance the interest of Akwa Ibom people.”
A motion to adopt the Speaker’s address and the letters
regarding the party changes was moved by Mr Lawrence Udoide, member
representing Ini State Constituency, and seconded by Mr Bassey Bassey of Okobo
state constituency.
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