Senator representing Plateau North in the National Assembly, Pam Mwadkon has formally defected from the African Democratic Party (ADP) to the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), attributing his decision to persistent internal crises within his former party.
Mwadkon announced his defection in a letter addressed to the Senate, which was read during Thursday’s plenary session by Senate President Godswill Akpabio.
In the letter, the senator said the decision followed extensive consultations with political associates, advisers and key stakeholders across Plateau North. He explained that the move was informed by his desire for a more stable political platform to effectively serve his constituents and advance good governance.
According to him, continued membership of the ADP had become increasingly untenable due to unresolved internal divisions that weakened party cohesion and constrained his ability to function effectively as a legislator.
“My decision is informed by the need to align with a political platform that reflects my commitment to good governance, inclusiveness and the collective interests of the good people of my senatorial district,” Mwadkon stated.
He described the situation within the ADP as characterised by “irreconcilable internal differences,” which he said had persistently undermined his capacity to contribute meaningfully to the party’s ideals and to deliver quality representation.
Expressing confidence in his new political home, Mwadkon said the APC offers a more stable and progressive environment through which he can pursue developmental priorities and better advance the interests of his constituents.
“I believe the All Progressives Congress provides a stronger platform to effectively serve my people and contribute to national development,” he said.
The senator formally requested that his defection be recognised in line with the provisions of the 1999 Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria and sought admission into the APC.
Reacting to the development, Senate President Akpabio welcomed Mwadkon to the ruling party, noting—light-heartedly—that several opposition lawmakers were already looking toward the APC and were only waiting for the right moment to make the move.
Mwadkon’s defection adds to the growing number of lawmakers who have crossed over to the APC in recent months, a trend that continues to alter the political balance within the National Assembly.
Political analysts note that defections have become a recurring feature of Nigeria’s legislative politics, often driven by internal party disputes, strategic considerations and shifting alliances ahead of future elections.
While critics argue that frequent party switching weakens ideological consistency and opposition strength, supporters contend that lawmakers must prioritise platforms that enable effective governance and meaningful representation.
The development is expected to strengthen the APC’s presence in Plateau State, where political competition remains keen and party loyalties fluid, further underscoring ongoing realignments within Nigeria’s evolving political landscape.
Plateau North Senator Defects to APC, Cites Internal Crisis in ADP
