Two members of the House of Representatives have formally defected from the opposition to the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC).
The Speaker of the House, Tajudeen Abbas, announced the defections during Tuesday’s plenary session.
Peter Akpanke, who represents the Obanliku/Obudu/Bekwara Federal Constituency of Cross River State, left the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) for the APC. Similarly, Paul Nnamchi, representing Enugu East/Isi-Uzo Federal Constituency in Enugu State, defected from the Labour Party to join the ruling party.
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The defections further strengthen the APC’s dominance in the lower chamber, reflecting a growing wave of realignments across party lines.
Meanwhile, the House also passed a second reading of a bill seeking to amend the 2024 Appropriation Act, specifically to extend the capital expenditure implementation period until December 31, 2025. Speaker Abbas explained the move was necessary due to funding delays that have stalled several capital projects.
In a related development, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has formally withheld his assent to the National Assembly Library Trust Fund Establishment Bill. In a letter to the House, he cited funding concerns and potential conflicts with existing laws as reasons for rejecting the proposed legislation.
