This move comes after months of speculation, and Nwoko cìted deep divisions and factìønalìzątìon within the PDP as the primary reasons for his decision.
The lawmaker representing Delta North Senatorial District, Ned Nwoko, has formally defected to the All Progressives Congress from the Peoples Democratic Party, under which he was elected in 2023.
In a resignation letter addressed to the party leadership in Ward 8, Aniocha North Local Government Area of Delta State, dated January 30, 2025, Nwoko lamented the state of the PDP, citing deep divisions
With Nwoko’s defęction, all three senators from Delta State are now members of the APC. Nwoko, representing Delta North Senatorial District, expressed his commitment to serving his constituents and working towards the progress and prosperity of Delta State and Nigeria.
and irreconcilable factions as the primary reasons for his defection.
“My decision to resign is, first and foremost, due to the deep divisions and factionalisation within the party. This fragmentation has made it increasingly difficult to foster unity and advance the collective interests of our people,” he said last week.
On Wednesday, Senate President Godswill Akpabio read Nwoko’s letter of defection to the APC during the plenary session.
Titled “Notice of Departure from the Peoples Democratic Party to the All Progressives Congress,” the letter read:
“I write to formally inform you and my distinguished colleagues of my decision to resign my membership of the PDP and consequently join the APC.
This decision was not made lightly but rather after deep reflection and extensive consultations with my constituents, political associates, and stakeholders across Delta North Senatorial District. The PDP, which once stood as a formidable platform for democratic participation and national development, has unfortunately been engulfed in persistent crises, ranging from internal divisions to a lack of clear leadership and direction.
These unresolved conflicts have weakened its ability to function as an effective opposition, thereby threatening the very fabric of our democracy.
“Mr President, democracy thrives on a strong and credible opposition that keeps the government in check, promotes accountability, and ensures that the voices of all Nigerians are heard. The continued deterioration of the PDP raises serious concerns about the future of our multi-party democracy.
If urgent steps are not taken to address this national emergency, Nigeria risks sliding into a dangerous one-party system, which history has shown to be detrimental to governance and national stability.
“In view of this, I urge the Senate to take this matter seriously by setting up an ad hoc committee to investigate the crisis within the PDP and recommend a way forward to safeguard our democracy. This committee should examine the root causes of the party’s internal implosion, engage relevant stakeholders, and propose reforms to ensure the survival of a viable opposition in Nigeria.
“I remain committed to serving the people of Delta North and contributing to the progress of our dear nation.
“Accordingly, I kindly request that my new party affiliation be reflected in the records of the Senate.”
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