Bauchi Senator Kaila Dahuwa Samaila Abandoned PDP to APCSenator Kaila Dahuwa Samaila, representing Bauchi North, has formally defected from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), marking another significant shift in Nigeria’s political landscape.
The defection was announced in a letter addressed to Senate President Godswill Akpabio and read during plenary on Tuesday. Senator Samaila cited prolonged and unresolved internal crises within the PDP as the primary reason for his departure, explaining that these challenges had severely constrained his ability to serve his constituents effectively.
He stated, “The Peoples Democratic Party has gravely constrained my ability to discharge my constitutional responsibilities effectively and in good conscience.”
As a committed public servant, he said it became necessary to realign with a party that upholds good governance, unity, progress, and disciplined leadership. He expressed strong support for President Bola Tinubu’s bold and transformative reforms aimed at restoring economic stability, strengthening governance, and driving sustainable growth.
He pledged full commitment to the implementation of the President’s Renewed Hope Agenda.
In his letter, the senator also praised Senate President Akpabio for his exemplary leadership of the 10th Senate, which he said has inspired confidence across party lines. With this defection, the APC now holds 74 seats in the 109-member Senate, solidifying its two-thirds majority—a crucial number for passing key legislation.
The PDP’s representation has dropped to 27 senators, while other parties like the Labour Party, APGA, NNPP, and SDP hold the remaining seats. Senator Samaila’s move reflects ongoing challenges within the PDP, including leadership disputes and factionalism, which many observers believe may lead to more defections in coming months. His switch significantly bolsters the APC’s legislative strength ahead of the 2027 elections, enhancing President Tinubu’s ability to advance his policy agenda through the National Assembly.
