The House of Representatives on Tuesday formally received defection notices from two federal lawmakers, Peter Akpanke and Paul Nnamchi, who announced their departure from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and the Labour Party, respectively.
Peter Akpanke, who represents the Obanliku/Obudu/Bekwara Federal Constituency of Cross River State, said his decision to leave the PDP was due to the party’s prolonged internal crisis. He cited persistent instability and unresolved leadership issues within the party, which, according to him, had made it increasingly difficult to continue as a member.
Similarly, Paul Nnamchi, representing the Enugu East/Isi Uzo Federal Constituency of Enugu State, said he was compelled to exit the Labour Party following what he described as ongoing leadership challenges that continue to disrupt the party’s structure and operations.
Both lawmakers expressed gratitude to their former parties for providing the platforms through which they were elected into the National Assembly. They also noted that their decisions were made in the best interest of their constituents and their commitment to effective representation.
Their defection letters were officially read on the floor of the House by the Speaker, Rt. Hon. Tajudeen Abbas, during Tuesday’s plenary session.
Akpanke and Nnamchi have now joined the All Progressives Congress (APC), the ruling party at the federal level.
Their defection adds to the growing list of lawmakers who have left opposition parties amid rising concerns over internal divisions and party leadership struggles.
