13 Lawmakers Defect as Chinda Steps Down as Minority Leader

The House of Representatives was jolted on Tuesday by a wave of political realignments as thirteen lawmakers defected from their parties, citing internal disputes and the need to strengthen their ties with constituents. The development underscored the volatility of Nigeria’s political landscape, where party loyalty often bends under the weight of local pressures and national ambitions.

Speaker Reads Defection Letters
Speaker Tajudeen Abbas presided over the plenary session and read letters from the defecting lawmakers. Each letter detailed reasons ranging from unresolved leadership crises to dissatisfaction with party structures. The Speaker’s role was largely procedural, but the sheer number of defections highlighted growing instability across major parties.

Gaza Moves to Labour Party
One of the notable shifts came from Gaza, who left the Social Democratic Party (SDP) for the Labour Party (LP). His defection takes effect in May 2026, marking a calculated move into a party that has gained traction among younger voters and urban constituencies.

Ehnona Joins PDP
Alex Ehnona announced his departure from the All Progressives Congress (APC) to the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP). He assured colleagues that his commitment to legislative duties remained firm despite the change. His move reflects a broader trend of lawmakers repositioning themselves ahead of future elections.

Iyawo’s Second Switch in Three Weeks
Esosa Iyawo’s defection drew attention because it was his second in less than a month. He left the APC for the National Democratic Congress (NDC), citing irreconcilable differences within the Edo State chapter of the APC. Iyawo withdrew an earlier letter dated May 12, 2026, and reaffirmed his dedication to democratic principles.

Lawal and Tafoki Exit APC
Sani Lawal also left the APC, effective May 4, explaining that the decision was aimed at better serving his constituents. Similarly, Shehu Tafoki defected to the PDP after what he described as careful reflection and consultations. Both lawmakers framed their moves as necessary for improved representation.

Six PDP Lawmakers Head to APM
The most significant bloc defection occurred in Oyo State, where six PDP lawmakers—Adebayo Adepoju, Adedeji Stanley Olajide, Ojo Sunday, Najeem Oyedeji, Folajimi Oyekunle, and Abbas Adigun—moved to the Allied Peoples Movement (APM). Their letters cited leadership crises, internal divisions, and unresolved legal battles within the PDP. They stressed that consultations with constituents and stakeholders informed their decisions.

Benedict Leaves Labour Party for PDP
Etanebene Benedict defected from the Labour Party to the PDP. He pointed to the dissolution of the Labour Party’s executive structure, which left members without recognised officials during the nomination process. He also criticised party leaders for openly supporting President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, saying it created an untenable environment for opposition voices.

Gwalabe Joins APM
Auwalu Gwalabe of Bauchi State also left the PDP for the APM, effective May 4. His move added to the growing tally of lawmakers abandoning the PDP, signalling deeper fractures within the party.

Chinda Resigns as Minority Leader
In a related development, Kingsley Chinda resigned as Minority Leader following his defection from the PDP to the APC. Chinda, who recently emerged as the APC governorship candidate for Rivers State in the 2027 election, formally informed the House of his resignation. His exit marked the end of his tenure as leader of the opposition caucus.

Implications for the House
The defections and Chinda’s resignation reshaped the balance of power in the House. The PDP, once dominant in opposition, now faces dwindling numbers and internal strife. The APC, despite losing members, gained a high-profile figure in Chinda, strengthening its position ahead of the 2027 polls.

Broader Political Context
Defections are not new in Nigeria’s legislature, but the scale of Tuesday’s events was striking. They reflect the fluid nature of party politics, where lawmakers often prioritise survival and influence over long-term loyalty. With elections looming, these moves may foreshadow further realignments as politicians seek platforms that best serve their ambitions.

The House of Representatives has become a theatre of shifting allegiances, with defections reshaping party dynamics and leadership roles. Chinda’s resignation as Minority Leader capped a day of political upheaval, leaving Nigerians to ponder how these changes will affect governance and opposition strength in the months ahead.