The Senate has recorded another major political defection as the Vice Chairman of the Senate Committee on Ethics, Code of Conduct and Public Petitions, Senator Ibrahim Khalid Mustapha, representing Kaduna North Senatorial District, formally dumped the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) for the African Democratic Congress (ADC).
The announcement was made on Thursday during plenary when Deputy Senate President, Senator Jibrin Barau, who presided over the session, read Mustapha’s defection letter before lawmakers.
In the letter, Senator Mustapha explained that his decision to leave the PDP was driven by what he described as ongoing instability within the opposition party.
He cited “persistent leadership crises, internal divisions and prolonged legal battles within the PDP” as the major reasons behind his decision to abandon the party and align with the ADC.
The latest switch further underscores the growing political realignments within the National Assembly as parties continue to reposition ahead of the 2027 general elections.
With Mustapha’s exit, the numerical strength of political parties in the Senate has shifted significantly. The current composition now places the All Progressives Congress (APC) at 88 seats, the African Democratic Congress (ADC) with eight seats, the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) with four seats, the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) reduced to three seats, while the All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA) and Accord Party retain one seat each.
This brings the total number of occupied seats in the Senate to 105 out of the constitutionally recognised 109.
The defection adds to the recent wave of political movements that have continued to reshape Nigeria’s legislative landscape, raising fresh questions about the future strength of opposition parties as preparations for the next electoral cycle gather momentum.
What You Should Know
Senator Ibrahim Khalid Mustapha’s defection from the PDP to the ADC reflects the deepening crisis within Nigeria’s opposition politics ahead of 2027.
His move weakens the PDP further in the Senate, leaving the party with just three senators. The latest realignment highlights how internal party disputes and legal battles are influencing lawmakers’ decisions, with many seeking platforms they believe offer greater political stability.
The changing Senate composition could significantly impact legislative alliances, opposition strategy, and party influence as political stakeholders begin positioning for the next general elections and the battle for control of Nigeria’s political landscape intensifies nationwide.
