Idris Salman, a member of the House of Representatives from Kabba-Bunu/Ijumu Federal Constituency, switched allegiance from the African Democratic Congress (ADC) to the All Progressives Congress (APC) on Tuesday.
News About Nigeria reports that Salman, who secured his seat in the 2023 National Assembly election under the ADC aegis, made the decision after extensive consultations with his constituents.
“I took this decision after wide-range consultation with members of my constituency,” the lawmaker said.
He announced his defection during a plenary session, where the Speaker, Tajudeen Abbas, read out his letter of defection.
The move was met with jubilation from APC lawmakers, who welcomed Salman with cheers.
However, the Minority Whip, Ali Isah, promptly called for Salman’s seat to be declared vacant, citing constitutional provisions that require a member to forfeit their seat if they defect from their sponsoring party without a valid reason.
Isah argued that Salman should seek nomination from his new party if he wishes to return to the legislative chamber.
Nevertheless, the House Leader, Julius Ihonvbere, ignored the call and instead escorted Salman to greet some APC lawmakers present at the plenary.
The minority whip’s remarks sparked a heated debate, with some members shouting him down and causing the chamber to erupt into chaos.
Despite the commotion, Salman’s defection marks a significant shift in the political landscape, highlighting the fluid nature of party allegiances in the country’s political sphere.
News About Nigeria understands that the move may have implications for the balance of power in the House of Representatives and raises questions about the stability of political parties in the country.
