Senator cites internal crisis, multiple factions within NNPP as reasons for defection
The Senator representing Kano South Senatorial District under the platform of the New Nigeria People’s Party (NNPP), Kawu Sumaila, has formally defected to the All Progressives Congress (APC).
The President of the Senate, Godswill Akpabio, read Senator Sumaila’s defection letter during plenary on Wednesday.
In the letter titled “Notification of Defection from the New Nigeria People’s Party (NNPP) to the All Progressives Congress (APC),” the lawmaker said his decision was informed by compelling and undeniable developments that have rendered the NNPP “severely divided and dysfunctional.”
Crisis, Factions and Party Identity Issues
Senator Sumaila explained that over recent months, a wave of litigations has torn the NNPP apart, fracturing its structure and leaving the party in disarray.
“These legal battles have not only eroded internal cohesion but have also created parallel and conflicting authorities within the party,” he wrote.
He highlighted that the party’s crisis had manifested further in the existence of multiple factions, each parading distinct party logos, which, according to him, reflects a clear and public splintering of the party’s identity.
Reasons for Joining APC
The senator emphasized that his defection is in line with Section 68, Subsection 1 of the 1999 Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria (as amended).
“In the spirit of democratic accountability and in line with my constitutional right, I have moved to the APC, a national and international platform which I believe will better support my legislative responsibilities and the aspirations of the good people of my senatorial district,” Sumaila said.
Impact on Senate Composition
With Senator Sumaila’s defection, the number of NNPP senators has now reduced to two, while the APC’s tally increases to 65.
The current composition of the Senate is as follows:
- APC – 65 senators
- PDP – 33 senators
- Labour Party (LP) – 5 senators
- Social Democratic Party (SDP) – 2 senators
- All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA) – 1 senator
This brings the total to 107 senators, with two seats currently vacant.
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Vacant Senate Seats
The two vacant Senate seats are:
- Anambra South – Following the death of Senator Ifeanyi Ubah in 2024
- Edo Central – After Senator Monday Okpebholo was elected Governor of Edo State.
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