Ojema Ojotu, the House of Representatives member for Apa/Agatu Federal Constituency in Benue State, has officially left the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to join the All Progressives Congress (APC).
Deputy Speaker Benjamin Kalu announced the defection during Tuesday’s plenary session and read Ojotu’s letter on the floor of the House of Representatives.
Ojotu’s move gives the APC full control of all 11 federal constituencies in Benue State, consolidating the party’s dominance in the state.
In his letter, Ojotu explained that the prolonged crisis within the PDP prompted his decision. “After consultations with my constituents, family, and political associates, I have decided to leave the PDP for the APC,” he stated.
The defection, however, sparked debate in the House. Deputy Minority Leader Aliyu Madaki of the New Nigeria Peoples Party invoked Section 68(1)(g) of the Constitution, arguing that Ojotu’s seat should be declared vacant because he left the party that sponsored his election.
House Majority Leader Ibrahim Halims countered the objection, citing party turmoil as justification for Ojotu’s move. “When there is an unresolved crisis in a party that cannot be resolved, a member can leave to protect their future,” he argued.
Deputy Speaker Kalu welcomed Ojotu to the APC and assured him of the party’s continued support.
Ojotu’s defection is part of a wider trend of politicians moving to the APC in 2025. Opposition parties have accused the ruling party of using intimidation to attract members, a claim President Bola Tinubu has repeatedly denied, urging them instead to resolve internal disputes.
