Senator Kawu Sumaila defected from NNPP to APC, amplifying the ruling party’s Senate dominance.
Senate President Godswill Akpabio announced the move during Tuesday’s session, citing Sumaila’s resignation letter.
Sumaila blamed NNPP’s internal strife, calling the party “divided and dysfunctional,” which he claimed hindered his service to Kano South.
“Constituents’ welfare demands nonpartisan action,” Sumaila stressed, prioritizing public needs over fractured politics.
His defection boosts APC’s seats to 65, dwarfing PDP (33), LP (5), NNPP/SDP (2 each), and APGA (1).
Cheers erupted as he joined APC colleagues, reaffirming his focus on grassroots development.
Previously an APC member, Sumaila joined NNPP in May 2022 but reversed course, aligning with local priorities.
On April 23, he confirmed his return via Facebook, addressing rumors and emphasizing community-driven decisions.
Analysts link his shift to Nigeria’s fluid politics, where lawmakers realign for influence and constituent demands.
The defection underscores ongoing recalibrations as legislators balance regional interests with party loyalty.
Critics argue such moves erode ideological coherence, reducing governance to transactional alliances.
Meanwhile, APC leaders hailed the switch as proof of their growing appeal, while NNPP downplayed its impact.
Sumaila’s return highlights the delicate interplay between personal ambition and public service in Nigeria’s evolving democracy.
As parties vie for power, voters watch closely, demanding accountability over political theatrics.
For now, the APC’s strengthened majority signals potential shifts in legislative agendas, with focus turning to tangible outcomes for Kano South.