The Labour Party (LP) has taken legal action following the defection of six of its members in the Nigerian House of Representatives to the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC).
Akangbe Illiya, representing Jos South/Jos East in Plateau State, is the latest to leave the LP, joining the APC on Thursday. This brings the total number of defections from the LP to six in the past two weeks, with lawmakers citing a leadership crisis in the party as their reason for switching allegiance.
In a statement issued by LP spokesperson Obiorah Ifo, the party described Illiya’s defection as “unfortunate and condemnable.” The statement referenced Section 68(g) of the 1999 Constitution, which outlines the circumstances under which lawmakers may defect without forfeiting their seats.
“The party has since filed actions in court to compel the National Assembly leadership to declare the seats of the defected Labour Party lawmakers vacant,” the statement read. “The suit also seeks that every salary, emolument, or privilege received, from the date of defection, be returned.”
LP criticised the Speaker of the House of Representatives, Tajudeen Abass, for allegedly failing to uphold constitutional provisions by not declaring the defectors’ seats vacant.
The statement further expressed disappointment at the lawmakers, saying: “Those politicians who have chosen to abandon the people at this crucial time are the ones who deserve pity because they have exposed themselves as unworthy of our collective trust.”
This wave of defections comes amidst speculation about political alignments ahead of the 2027 general elections.
The Labour Party has vowed to pursue its case to ensure the constitutional process is respected and prevent further desertions from the party.
