A major political shift has occurred in Akwa Ibom State as seven members of the House of Representatives have formally defected from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and the Young Progressives Party (YPP) to the All Progressives Congress (APC), Nigeria’s ruling party.
The defection, which took place on Wednesday, July 3, was officially acknowledged during plenary when the Speaker of the House, Hon. Tajudeen Abbas, read out letters submitted by the lawmakers announcing their exit from their former parties.
Those who have switched allegiance include Hon. Unyime Idem, Hon. Martin Esin, Hon. Paul Ekpo, Hon. Uduak Alphonsos, Hon. Eteh Ikpong, Hon. Emmanuel Udom, and Hon. Okon Bassey—all representatives from Akwa Ibom State.
According to the letters read before the House, the lawmakers attributed their defection to persistent and unresolved internal crises within their former parties. They stated that the challenges had made it increasingly difficult for them to effectively serve their constituencies under the platforms of the PDP and YPP.
Notably, Hon. Unyime Idem, who currently chairs the House Committee on Public Procurement, disclosed that his departure from the PDP comes after over two decades of active membership and leadership roles.
He specifically cited the worsening leadership tussles—particularly the prolonged conflict regarding the office of the party’s National Secretary—as a major reason behind his decision. Idem referenced Section 68(1g) of the Nigerian Constitution, which permits lawmakers to defect if their political party faces division or crisis.
In his own letter, Hon. Martin Esin explained that he formally resigned from the PDP on June 17, noting that his defection to the APC aligns with the expectations and demands of his constituents. He emphasized that the move was based on extensive consultations with community stakeholders who believed a realignment with the ruling party would better serve their interests.
The lawmakers further noted that their collective decision followed a wide-reaching dialogue with their constituents, who overwhelmingly supported the transition.
This mass defection follows a similar move by Akwa Ibom State Governor, Umo Eno, who recently dumped the PDP for the APC. Governor Eno stated that his decision was reached after three months of thoughtful consultation with leaders, political actors, and grassroots stakeholders across the state. He stressed that the defection was in the best interest of Akwa Ibom and aimed at ensuring better synergy with the federal government for development and good governance.
As the 2027 general elections draw closer, these realignments point to an intensifying political recalibration in Akwa Ibom and beyond, as politicians seek platforms that reflect both personal ambitions and constituent interests.