Labour Party condemns the defection of lawmakers to the APC, calling it a betrayal of supporters and democracy. The party has opened a "Hall of Shame" to publicly list the defectors and plans legal action to reclaim their mandates, highlighting the constitutional breach.
The Labour Party (LP) has strongly condemned the defection of several of its lawmakers to the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC). National Publicity Secretary of the party, Obiora Ifoh, referred to the move as "unfortunate" and stated that these lawmakers had dishonored not only the party but also the supporters who voted them into office. In response, the party announced the creation of a "Hall of Shame" to publicly list the names of the defectors.
The lawmakers who switched allegiance to the APC include Tochukwu Okere, Donatus Mathew, Bassey Akiba, Iyawe Esosa, and Daulyop Fom. The defection was officially announced when their letters were read on the floor of the House of Representatives by Speaker Tajudeen Abbas. The Labour Party believes the defections violate the 1999 Constitution, as lawmakers elected under one party are not allowed to join another without specific legal grounds, such as a party merger or division.
The party, which made significant strides in the 2023 elections, expressed deep disappointment, especially considering the sacrifices made by its supporters. Many of the defectors, according to the LP, had been elected with minimal financial backing and the support of grassroots Nigerians. The Labour Party has vowed to take legal action to regain the seats held by the defectors and ensure their mandates are respected.
The LP further emphasized the importance of integrity in politics, calling on Nigerians to reject opportunistic politicians who switch parties for personal gain.
