Senators Defect Because They See Tinubu as Nigeria’s ‘Father’ — Akpabio

Senate President Godswill Akpabio has explained the recent defection of senators from other parties to the All Progressives Congress (APC), attributing it to their belief in President Bola Tinubu as the “father of Nigeria” and the guiding force behind all political parties.

Speaking after a meeting between President Tinubu and senators Agom Jarigbe (Cross River North) and Kaila Samaila (Bauchi North)—both recent defectors from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP)—Akpabio said their move was driven by patriotism and confidence in Tinubu’s leadership and economic reforms.

Akpabio stated, “They joined the Senate on different platforms, but because of Mr President’s policies that have turned things around economically and boosted national revenue, they found it expedient to join APC to build Nigeria.”

He emphasized that the defections reflect trust in the president’s vision rather than political opportunism.