Political Earthquake In Abuja! PDP Senator Dumps Party, Joins APC Amid Rising Tensions

The ranks of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in the Senate have grown following the defection of Senator Jarigbe Agom Jarigbe, who represents Cross River North, from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to the ruling party.

Jarigbe’s defection letter was read during Tuesday’s plenary by the Deputy Senate President, Barau Jibrin, who presided over the session.

In his letter, the lawmaker attributed his decision to the “deep-seated internal divisions” and “irreconcilable differences” within the PDP, both at the national and state levels.

He explained that after “careful reflection,” he concluded that the APC offered a more stable and forward-looking platform to effectively represent the people of Cross River North.

“I rise to formally inform you and the distinguished leadership of the Senate of my resignation from the Peoples Democratic Party, on whose platform I was elected to serve the good people of Cross River North Senatorial District,” Jarigbe wrote.

“It is with deep regret that I note the persistent and deliberate factions within my former party, which have made meaningful progress impossible. In the best interest of my constituents and in pursuit of effective representation, I have decided to join the All Progressives Congress.”

He further praised President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s leadership and the “steady guidance” of the National Assembly under Barau Jibrin, describing the APC as a “stable and progressive platform” capable of delivering the dividends of democracy.

With Jarigbe’s defection, the APC’s numerical strength in the Senate has now risen to 77 members.