Several opposition lawmakers in Nigeria’s National Assembly have pledged loyalty to their political parties despite a growing wave of defections to the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC).
The commitment comes as political alignments intensify ahead of the 2027 general elections, with the APC gaining a significant advantage in both chambers of the National Assembly.
Recent defections triggered by internal party disputes, leadership crises, and legal battles have weakened opposition parties.
The developments have strengthened the APC’s influence in parliament and positioned it with a commanding majority capable of shaping legislative outcomes.
APC Consolidates Majority in National Assembly
In the 360-member House of Representatives, the APC currently controls 241 seats, while the remaining 119 seats are shared among seven opposition parties.
The ruling party also holds 80 out of 109 seats in the Senate.
The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) maintains 21 seats in the upper chamber, while the Labour Party has three senators.
The All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA) holds two seats and the New Nigeria People’s Party (NNPP) controls one.
Political analysts say the defections have reduced the opposition’s ability to challenge government-backed legislation and weakened its role in parliamentary oversight and committee leadership.
Lawmakers Insist on Party Loyalty
Despite the trend, some lawmakers say they remain committed to the mandates given to them by their constituents.
Joshua Gana, who represents Lavun/Mokwa/Edati Federal Constituency in Niger State under the PDP, said he would remain loyal to the party.
According to him, his commitment dates back to the PDP’s formation in 1998, and he intends to help rebuild the party rather than abandon it during challenging times.
Similarly, Obinna Onwusibe, the lawmaker representing Isiala Ngwa North/South Federal Constituency in Abia State, confirmed he would remain in the Labour Party despite the recent political moves of Peter Obi.
2027 Political Realignments Intensify
The political landscape has become more fluid following the reported movement of former presidential candidates Atiku Abubakar and Peter Obi to the African Democratic Congress as part of a broader coalition effort ahead of the 2027 elections.
Meanwhile, the ruling APC continues to benefit from the political influence of President Bola Tinubu.
With the National Assembly set to resume plenary on March 10, observers expect fresh defections and further political negotiations in the weeks ahead as parties reposition for the 2027 electoral contest.
For now, however, several opposition lawmakers insist their political mandate remains tied to the parties under which they were elected.
