His decision was formally announced in a letter addressed to the Senate and read by the Senate President, Godswill Akpabio, during plenary.
In the letter, Senator Imasuen explained that his defection came after extensive consultations with his constituents, political associates, and supporters across Edo South. He noted that persistent internal crises and leadership challenges within the Labour Party made it difficult for him to effectively serve his people.
According to Imasuen, his move to the APC was motivated by the desire to align with the development-driven policies of the Federal Government and support the Renewed Hope agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu. He emphasized that the APC provides a stronger national platform and the political structure needed to fulfill his mandate and deliver dividends of democracy to his constituents.
“The internal divisions and leadership struggles within the Labour Party have made it impossible for me to operate effectively as a Senator,” Imasuen stated in his letter.
Following the announcement, the Senate officially welcomed him into the APC caucus. In a light-hearted remark, Senate President Akpabio said, “You will no longer Labour in vain.”
With this defection, the APC has further consolidated its strength in the 10th Senate, increasing its number of seats to 69 — just four short of the two-thirds majority needed to pass key legislation without opposition.
Current Composition of the 10th Senate:
- APC – 69 seats
- PDP – 30 seats
- Labour Party – 4 seats
- SDP – 2 seats
- NNPP – 1 seat
- APGA – 1 seat
A total of 107 seats are currently occupied in the Senate, with two seats still vacant.
This latest defection highlights the ongoing realignments within Nigeria’s political space as politicians position themselves ahead of future electoral contests and national policy decisions.
