Senator Ipalibo Banigo, representing Rivers West Senatorial District, has officially left the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to join the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC).
Banigo said her defection was motivated by the need to align politically with Rivers State Governor Siminalayi Fubara and to support initiatives aimed at advancing development in the state and the administration of President Bola Tinubu.
Her letter of defection was read on the floor of the Senate on Tuesday by Senate President Godswill Akpabio, a video of which was posted on the Senate’s official Facebook page.
In the letter, Banigo wrote, “I rise to formally inform you and my distinguished colleagues of the Senate of the decision to defect from the People’s Democratic Party and subsequently join the APC. The decision follows extensive consultations with my constituents, political associates, and critical stakeholders across my senatorial district, given the prevailing internal divisions, leadership disputes, and ongoing litigations within the PDP, which have affected cohesion.”
She added that the move was also aimed at supporting her political mentors, including Governor Fubara, in backing President Tinubu’s economic reforms and re-election efforts. Banigo praised the President for stabilizing the economy, enhancing currency stability, and driving infrastructural development across Nigeria.
Banigo also expressed her commitment to supporting the First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, in advancing initiatives that benefit Nigerians.
After reading the letter, Akpabio welcomed Banigo to the APC, assuring that “a seat is already prepared” for her and others joining the party.
Her defection follows a trend of political realignments ahead of the 2027 general elections, with politicians seeking to align with federal power. On Monday, Zamfara State Governor Dauda Lawal and his deputy, Mani Mummuni, also joined the APC, citing crises and legal disputes within the PDP.
