Ojema Ojotu, representing Apa/Agatu Federal Constituency in Benue State, officially defected from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to the All Progressives Congress (APC).
Deputy Speaker Hon Benjamin Kalu read Ojotu’s defection letter during Tuesday’s plenary session, formally announcing the move to the Green Chamber.
With Ojotu’s defection, APC now controls all federal House seats from Benue, consolidating its influence in the North Central region.
The lawmaker cited ongoing crises within the PDP and consultations with constituents, family, and political allies as reasons for switching parties.
Parliamentary debate
The defection sparked debate in the House. Deputy Minority Leader Aliyu Madaki of the New Nigeria Peoples Party urged the Deputy Speaker to declare Ojotu’s seat vacant, citing constitutional provisions for party defection.
House Majority Leader Ibrahim Halims countered, noting that unresolved internal party crises allow members to leave without forfeiting their seats. The Deputy Speaker sided with Halims and welcomed Ojotu into APC.
Committee roles and political implications
Ojotu continues to serve as Chairman of the House Committee on Inland Waterways under his new party.
The defection strengthens APC’s legislative agenda in Benue and may influence policy decisions, committee leadership, and resource allocations within the North Central region.
The development reflects ongoing shifts in Nigeria’s political landscape, where party allegiance adapts to internal disputes, constituent interests, and strategic considerations.