Banigo Joins APC, Cites PDP Crisis, Support For Tinubu

Senator Ipalibo Banigo has defected from the Peoples Democratic Party to the ruling All Progressives Congress.

Her letter of defection was read during Tuesday’s plenary by Senate President Godswill Akpabio.

Banigo said the decision followed consultations with her constituents and stakeholders, citing internal divisions, leadership disputes and ongoing litigations within the PDP.

She explained that the move was also to align politically with Rivers State Governor Siminalayi Fubara and the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, in supporting the administration of Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

Akpabio welcomed Banigo to the APC, saying a seat had already been prepared for her and other lawmakers expected to join the ruling party.

Her defection comes amid growing political realignments ahead of the 2027 general elections.