The All Progressives Congress (APC) in the Senate has gained another member, bringing its total strength to 71 senators, following the defection of Senator Kelvin Chukwu from the Labour Party (LP). Chukwu represents the Enugu East Senatorial District and announced his defection during Tuesday’s plenary session.
According to Senator Chukwu, his decision to join the ruling APC was driven by what he described as “disorganization and internal crisis” within the Labour Party. His defection marks yet another realignment in the 10th National Assembly, further strengthening the APC’s majority in the upper chamber.
During plenary, Senate President Godswill Akpabio reacted to the development by urging opposition parties to rebuild and provide a credible alternative voice in Nigeria’s democracy. He noted that a weak opposition poses a threat to democratic checks and balances.
> “I want a strong and vibrant opposition in Nigeria, but when they are in tatters, what can we do? Please, put your house in order. That’s why INEC is registering more political parties,” Akpabio said.
Echoing Akpabio’s comments, Senate Leader Opeyemi Bamidele praised the Tinubu-led administration for what he called “visible progress” in economic management. He said the shift in Senate membership reflects growing public confidence in the APC’s leadership, citing improving foreign reserves and gradual GDP growth as signs of recovery.
With the new development, the Senate’s current composition now stands as follows:
All Progressives Congress (APC) – 71
Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) – 28
Labour Party (LP) – 4
Social Democratic Party (SDP) – 2
New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP) – 1
All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA) – 1
The defection adds new dynamics to the country’s political landscape as the ruling party consolidates power ahead of future legislative and national contests.
