Abuja, Nigeria – May 14, 2025 — Leader of the Senate, Senator Opeyemi Bamidele, on Tuesday justified the recent defection of all federal lawmakers from Kebbi State to the All Progressives Congress (APC), stating that the ruling party is now operating what he described as a “government of national unity.”
Speaking at the Senate Chamber of the National Assembly in Abuja, Bamidele emphasized that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu did not coerce opposition lawmakers to join the APC, contrary to criticism suggesting otherwise.
“This is not about coercion; it is about conviction. These men joined the APC of their own volition for the greater good of Nigeria,” Bamidele declared.
Three PDP Senators Officially Join APC
The defection was made official during plenary as the three PDP senators from Kebbi State —
-
Adamu Aliero (Kebbi Central)
-
Yahaya Abubakar Abdullahi (Kebbi North)
-
Garba Maidoki (Kebbi South)
— submitted their letters announcing their decision to leave the PDP for the APC.
Deputy Senate President Jibrin Barau, who presided over the plenary, read the letters individually, formally welcoming the trio into the ruling party.
Their defection was witnessed by APC National Chairman Dr. Abdullahi Ganduje, Kebbi State Governor Nasir Idris, and APC National Organising Secretary Sulaiman Argungu, among other dignitaries.
“No One Was Forced” – Bamidele
Bamidele, who represents Ekiti Central, dismissed claims of coercion, contrasting the APC’s approach with that of the PDP during its time in power.
“We all witnessed how PDP, when in government, used federal might to coerce defections. What you are seeing today is voluntary,” he said.
He highlighted the distinguished political careers of the defectors, noting their experience and credibility:
-
Aliero: Former Governor of Kebbi (1999–2007), ex-Federal Minister, and currently one of the most senior senators.
-
Yahaya Abdullahi: Former Senate Leader during the 9th Assembly.
-
Maidoki: Private sector veteran and first-time senator.
“These are men of conviction. They have not defected for personal gain but for public service and national interest,” Bamidele stated.
“This Is Not About One-Party State”
Addressing fears about Nigeria drifting toward a one-party system, Bamidele reassured the public that the APC remains committed to democratic pluralism and inclusive governance.
“Our doors remain open. We will not shut anyone out—regardless of party, religion, or tribe. We welcome all who share in our mission to transform Nigeria.”
Bamidele described the influx of opposition lawmakers into APC as a reflection of widespread support for Tinubu’s administration and its policies.
“Even APGA, which remains an opposition party, nominated a Minister of State in this government. That tells you everything: this is a national unity government.”
‘Not the Time for Grandstanding’
Bamidele argued that the current political climate demands unity and collaboration rather than opposition for opposition’s sake.
“We are not in normal times. This is not the time for grandstanding. This is the time for patriots to come together to save and rebuild Nigeria.”
He also pushed back on critics labelling the 10th National Assembly a “rubber-stamp parliament,” saying:
“We are focused on collective national interest. That’s what the people elected us to do.”
Minority Lawmakers Will Be Respected
While welcoming the new members, Bamidele assured remaining opposition senators of continued collaboration.
“We will continue to work with our colleagues on the minority side. Once in this chamber, party labels fade. What matters is serving the Nigerian people.”
Political Implications of the Defections
The defection of the Kebbi lawmakers further consolidates the APC’s numerical strength in the National Assembly and reinforces Tinubu’s growing influence across party lines, especially in the North-West geopolitical zone.
The move also signals a potential reshaping of the political landscape ahead of future elections, as regional blocs align with federal power for strategic leverage.
