Amos Magaji, the lawmaker representing Zangon Kataf/Jaba Federal Constituency in Kaduna State, has officially left the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and joined the All Progressives Congress (APC).
His defection was announced on the floor of the House of Representatives during plenary on Tuesday by Speaker Tajudeen Abbas.
During the announcement, Speaker Abbas stated that Magaji’s decision to leave the PDP was influenced by internal conflicts within the party.
He encouraged APC lawmakers in the House to welcome Magaji into their fold, emphasizing that the ruling party continues to grow in strength.
However, the Minority Leader of the House, Kingsley Chinda, raised an objection, citing Section 68(1)(g) of the 1999 Constitution (as amended).
He argued that according to the law, any lawmaker who defects to another party without a division in their original party should automatically lose their seat.
Chinda quoted the constitutional provision, stressing that it serves as a safeguard against political instability and indiscriminate party-switching. His objection, however, was met with resistance from several lawmakers, who loudly opposed his stance.
In response to Chinda’s argument, Speaker Abbas advised him to formally present his concerns in writing to the appropriate authorities. This suggests that while the constitutional provision exists, its interpretation and application remain subject to legal and political considerations.
Magaji’s defection adds to the growing trend of lawmakers leaving the PDP for the APC, signaling a shift in political alignments ahead of future elections.
The move is expected to further strengthen the ruling party’s presence in the National Assembly, while also raising questions about the stability of the opposition.
