A member of the Labour Party (LP) caucus in the House of Representatives, representing the Jos South/Jos East Federal Constituency, Plateau State, Mr. Ajang Iliya, has defected to the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC). This significant political shift comes less than a week after the LP lost five of its members in the House to the APC.
Announcement of Defection
Speaker Abbas Tajudeen announced Iliya’s defection during Thursday’s plenary session after reading a letter from the lawmaker. In his defection letter, Ajang cited the ongoing crisis within the Labour Party and the need to align with the APC’s national development agenda under President Bola Tinubu as his primary reasons for the switch.
Reasons for Defection
Ajang Iliya highlighted several key reasons for his decision to defect from the Labour Party to the APC. He pointed to the leadership crisis within the LP, which has created uncertainty and hindered effective representation. Iliya expressed difficulty in aligning with the LP’s position on current national issues, which further influenced his decision.
In his letter, Iliya stated, “I write formally to inform you of my decision to defect from the Labour Party to the All Progressives Congress effective immediately. This decision was due to the crisis of leadership in Labour and though deeply personal, it’s one that I believe is in the best interest of my constituents and broader objectives of national development”.
Alignment with APC’s Agenda
Iliya emphasized his alignment with the APC’s national development agenda, particularly under the leadership of President Bola Tinubu. He noted the APC’s commitment to infrastructural development, economic growth, and national unity, which resonates deeply with his vision for Plateau State and Nigeria at large. By joining the ruling party, Iliya believes he will be better positioned to realize developmental goals and bring much-needed support to his constituents.
Impact on Labour Party
The defection of Ajang Iliya adds to the growing instability within the Labour Party, which has seen several of its members leave for the APC in recent weeks. This trend raises concerns about the party’s ability to maintain a cohesive and effective opposition against the ruling party. The ongoing leadership crisis and internal conflicts within the LP have been cited as major factors driving these defections.
Broader Political Implications
Iliya’s defection is part of a broader pattern of political realignments in Nigeria, where lawmakers frequently switch parties to align with the ruling government. This trend often reflects strategic moves to secure better opportunities for development projects and political influence. The defection also underscores the challenges faced by opposition parties in maintaining unity and coherence in the face of internal and external pressures.
Conclusion
Ajang Iliya’s defection to the APC marks a significant development in Nigeria’s political landscape. As the Labour Party grapples with internal crises, the ruling APC continues to consolidate its position by attracting members from opposition parties. The impact of these defections on the political dynamics in the House of Representatives and the broader national political scene will be closely watched in the coming months.
