Chris Nkwonta, a House of Representatives member, has left the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to join the All Progressives Congress (APC).
On Wednesday, Tajudeen Abbas, the Speaker of the House, announced Nkwonta’s defection on the floor of the Green Chamber.
Nkwonta represents the Ukwa East/Ukwa West federal constituency of Abia State.
His recent defection from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to the All Progressives Congress (APC) was officially announced by Speaker Tajudeen Abbas in the Green Chamber.
This political shift was met with enthusiasm, as APC legislators erupted in cheers upon hearing the news, signaling a boost for the party in the region.
Nkwonta’s move is expected to impact the political landscape in Abia, strengthening the APC’s presence and influence in the federal constituency he represents.
However, Aliyu Madaki, Deputy Minority Leader of the House, who is a member of the New Nigeria People’s Party (NNPP) from Kano voiced his objections to the defection. He referenced Section 68 of the constitution, stating that a lawmaker can only leave the party that sponsored their election in the event of a crisis within that party.
Abbas ruled his point out of order, asserting that there is indeed a crisis in the PDP.
"The information available to me shows theres is a faction", the Speaker mentioned.
Abbas also appointed Nkwonta as the chairman of the House Committe on th South-East Development Commission.
Recall that after a key stakeholders’ meeting in Obehie, Ukwa West LGA on Tuesday, PDP leaders voiced their frustration over what they described as "persistent crises" within the national party, where governors are vying for control.
The communiqué, signed by Don Ubani, a former Deputy Chief of Staff to the Governor of Abia State, along with John Ajuzieogu, Goodhope Nwagbara, and 37 other PDP leaders, expressed disappointment over the delay in holding the Abia State PDP Congress.
As a result, they urged their representative in the House of Representatives, Chris Nkwonta, to promptly leave the PDP and join the APC, claiming that his continued affiliation with the PDP is detrimental to his constituents.
Expressing concern over the inadequate infrastructure in their region, the Ukwa-East and Ukwa-West PDP members thanked President Bola Tinubu for the ongoing NDDC projects and appreciated Deputy Speaker Benjamin Kalu for his strong representation.
“We will align and holistically support President Bola Ahmed Tinubu”, the PDP stakeholders said.
