Title: Sen. Banigo Defects from PDP to APC, Cites Party Divisions Date Published: 10 March 2026 Description: Dr. Ipalibo Harry Banigo, Senator representing Rivers West Senatorial District has formally defected from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), citing deepening internal divisions, persistent leadership crises, and ongoing litigations within her former party as the driving factors behind her decision.The lawmaker’s defection letter was read on the floor of the Senate on Tuesday by Senate President Godswill Akpabio, formally notifying the Upper Chamber of her move. Banigo said her decision followed extensive consultations with constituents, political associates, and other stakeholders across Rivers West.According to Banigo, the unresolved disputes and fractures within the PDP had weakened unity and made it increasingly difficult for members to pursue common political objectives. “The persistent leadership crises and internal litigations have created an environment where the party’s cohesion and effectiveness are compromised,” she stated.The senator explained that her move to the APC would allow her to align with the political direction of Siminalayi Fubara, Governor of Rivers State, and Nyesom Wike, Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, whom she described as her political mentor. She further said the decision reflected her commitment to supporting President Bola Tinubu and his ongoing economic reforms.“This decision is predicated on my resolve to join my political mentor, the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, and the Governor of Rivers State, Siminalayi Fubara, in supporting President Bola Tinubu to actualise his re-election bid and enable him to continue his economic reforms,” Banigo said. She added that the Tinubu administration’s policies had begun to stabilise the economy, particularly in currency management and infrastructure development.Banigo also pledged to support initiatives led by First Lady Oluremi Tinubu, especially programmes aimed at improving the welfare of Nigerians.In his remarks after the letter was read, Senate President Akpabio welcomed Banigo to the APC, assuring her that “a seat is already prepared” for her and other lawmakers expected to join the ruling party ahead of the 2027 general elections.Her defection comes amid a wave of political realignments as politicians reposition themselves ahead of 2027. Recently, Zamfara State Governor Dauda Lawal and his deputy, Mani Mummuni, also defected to the APC, citing lingering crises and legal disputes within the PDP as reasons for their departure.Political analysts say these moves reflect the growing influence of the ruling party and the challenges the opposition PDP faces in maintaining internal cohesion ahead of the next general elections. Attached Images: a7397bc79faecbc9a7a764bcf6fc76042d93eccdc42fbc1f8cbc8945169f1ac0.jpg Attached Video: None