The Senate on Thursday recorded another defection as Senator Pam Dachungyang, representing Plateau State, officially left the Action Democratic Party for the ruling All Progressives Congress.
The development was confirmed during plenary when Senate President Godswill Akpabio read the senator’s defection letter, putting to rest weeks of speculation surrounding his political direction.
In the letter, titled “Notice of Defection from the Action Democratic Party,” Dachungyang cited irreconcilable differences and prolonged internal crises within the ADP as reasons for his decision, saying the situation had increasingly hampered his effectiveness as a lawmaker.
“I write to inform you of my defection to the All Progressives Congress effective immediately,” the senator stated.
He explained that the decision followed extensive consultations with stakeholders in his senatorial district, including constituents and political associates.
“This decision follows extensive consultations with my constituents, my political associates, and my stakeholders, and is informed by the need to align with a political platform that best reflects my commitment to good governance, inclusive development, and the overall interest of the good people of my senatorial district,” the letter partly read.
The lawmaker further blamed persistent internal wrangling within the ADP for his exit, noting that the crisis had weakened his ability to contribute meaningfully to the party and effectively represent his constituents at the National Assembly.
“My defection is also necessitated by irreconcilable differences and persistent internal wrangling within the Action Democratic Party, which have hindered my ability to effectively contribute to the party’s ideals and deliver quality representation to my constituents,” the letter continued.
Expressing confidence in his new political home, Dachungyang said the APC provides a more stable and progressive platform for advancing his legislative agenda.
“I am confident that the All Progressives Congress offers a more stable and progressive platform through which I can continue to serve my constituency and the nation with renewed focus and dedication,” he said.
He concluded by formally requesting the Senate to recognise his defection in accordance with constitutional provisions and to admit him as a member of the APC, a move that further boosts the ruling party’s strength in the upper legislative chamber.
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