Dare Babalola
Senator Kaila Samaila, representing Bauchi North, has defected from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to the All Progressives Congress (APC), citing internal PDP crises and factionalisation that hindered his ability to deliver on his constitutional responsibilities.
In a letter to Senate President Godswill Akpabio which was read during Tuesday’s plenary, Samaila expressed his commitment to national unity and development, praising President Bola Tinubu’s “bold and transformative reforms” aimed at restoring economic stability and strengthening governance.
The letter read in part, “The Peoples Democratic Party has gravely constrained my ability to discharge my constitutional responsibilities effectively and in good conscience.
“As one deeply committed to the service of our nation and the welfare of my people, I have found it necessary to realign my political engagements with a more progressive platform that embodies good governance, unity, progress, growth, and discipline in the governance of our country.”
He continued, “Consequently, I have chosen to join the All Progressives Congress, APC, and to lend my full commitment to the reforms of His Excellency, President Bola Tinubu.
“I hold in high regard the bold and transformative reforms initiated by the President, aimed at restoring economic stability, strengthening governance, and repositioning our nation for sustainable growth.”
Samaila stated that Tinubu’s leadership represents the kind of “decisive” direction Nigeria needs to move forward.
The senator also commended Akpabio for what he described as “exemplary leadership” of the 10th Senate.
Samaila concluded by pledging loyalty to his new party and reaffirming his commitment to national unity and development.
With this development, the APC now has 74 senators, the PDP 27, the Labour Party has four, the All Progressives Grand Alliance has two, the New Nigeria Peoples Party has one, and the Social Democratic Party has one, bringing the total to 109.
