The senator representing Nasarawa South senatorial district, Ogoshi Onawo, has defected from the African Democratic Congress (ADC) to the Allied Peoples Movement (APM), citing internal challenges within his former party.

Mr Onawo’s letter of defection was read by the deputy Senate president, Jibrin Barau, who presided over the plenary on Tuesday.

In the letter, Mr Onawo said his resignation from the ADC took effect from June 15, following what he described as careful reflection and extensive consultations with his constituents, political associates and other key stakeholders.

He explained that his decision was informed by the ‘prevailing circumstances’ within the party.

Mr Onawo said such issues included internal structure and ongoing legal disputes which, according to him, no longer provided the cohesion, support and enabling environment needed for him to effectively represent his constituents.

The lawmaker said he had consequently joined the APM to continue pursuing his mandate and thanked his supporters and well-wishers for their trust and cooperation.

Following the announcement, Senator Aminu Tambuwal (ADC-Sokoto) acknowledged that Mr Onawo had exercised his constitutional right to freedom of association by leaving the ADC.

According to Mr Tambuwal, democracy thrives on the freedom of citizens and political office holders to associate with parties of their choice.

He wished the senator well in his new political platform.

Mr Barau, while commenting on the development, said it was ironic that the ADC, which had projected itself as a strong opposition platform, was already witnessing defections before fully consolidating.

Mr Barau’s remarks, however, drew an objection from Mr Tambuwal, who urged him to remain non-partisan while presiding over plenary.

Responding, Mr Barau said he had taken the advice but maintained that as the presiding officer, he was also entitled to offering guidance during proceedings.

(NAN)