The Senator representing Kano South, Senator Kawu Sumaila, has formally informed the Senate of his defection from the New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP) to the All Progressives Congress (APC).
In a letter read on the floor of the Senate, Senator Kawu cited Section 68(1)(g) of the 1999 Constitution (as amended) to justify his defection, stating that the NNPP has become severely divided and dysfunctional due to internal crises.
According to him, the party has been engulfed in a series of litigations that have fractured its structure and rendered it ineffective.
He listed multiple court cases, including NNPP vs Chief Boniface and 20 others, Chukwuneye Ogbodo & Others vs NNPP and INEC, and NNPP, Ahmed & Dr. Boniface, all of which he said stem from disputes over party leadership and unity.
He noted that these litigations have eroded the party’s internal cohesion and led to the emergence of conflicting factions, each claiming legitimacy and operating with different party logos
Senator Kawu emphasized that the level of division within the NNPP meets the constitutional threshold for defection.
He added that remaining in the party would no longer serve the national interest or the interest of his constituents across the sixteen local governments into Kano South.
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In his words: “In the spirit of democratic accountability, I have decided to move to the APC, a national platform that I believe aligns better with the aspirations of my people.”
Senate Leader Opeyemi Bamidele, speaking under Order 41 (Personal Explanation), welcomed Senator Kawu’s defection, saying the move followed extensive consultations.
He expressed hope that the only remaining NNPP senator from Kano, Senator Rufai Hanga, would also consider joining the APC.
Senate President Godswill Akpabio described the defection as necessary for national unity and political stability.
However, Senate Minority Leader Abba Moro offered a contrasting view, noting that while lawmakers have the freedom to align with parties of their choice, many often defect on what he described as “nebulous” grounds to suit political convenience.
Nonetheless, he wished Senator Kawu well in his new party.
In a final statement under Order 42, Senator Kawu expressed gratitude to his colleagues and constituents, promising to intensify his legislative efforts in service of the nation.
