Alfred Illiya Ajang, representing Jos South and East, has defected from the Labour Party (LP) to the All Progressives Congress (APC), citing internal crises within the LP. His defection follows that of another LP lawmaker, adding to the growing list of federal lawmakers leaving the opposition party for the ruling APC.
Alfred Illiya Ajang, representing Jos South and East Federal Constituency, has officially defected from the Labour Party (LP) to the All Progressives Congress (APC). Illiya cited internal crises within the LP as his reason for switching parties. His defection adds to the growing list of lawmakers leaving Nigeria's opposition party for the ruling APC.
During a session in the House of Representatives, Speaker Tajudeen Abbas read the defection letter. This led to a heated debate, with some lawmakers questioning its constitutionality. Minority Leader Kingsley Chinda voiced opposition, arguing that the letter should not be admitted due to failure to meet constitutional requirements, which mandate that lawmakers inform their constituents and party members before defecting. Despite this, the Speaker overruled the objection, and the defection letter was read.
Former Minister of Labour and Employment, now Senator Simon Lalong, attended the session to support Illiya's defection. This marks the second defection from LP in recent days, with Dalyop Chollom, representing Barkin Ladi/Riyom, also joining the APC. Both lawmakers cited the crisis within the LP as their reason for leaving.
The Labour Party has expressed concern over these defections, suggesting legal action due to their claims of unconstitutional defections. This shift highlights the deepening divisions within the opposition party as several federal lawmakers continue to move to the APC, signaling a potential shift in Nigeria's political landscape. The defections raise questions about the future cohesion of the Labour Party as it faces mounting challenges from within.
