In a significant political realignment, the Zamfara State House of Assembly has witnessed a major defection as six of its members switched allegiance from the ruling Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to the opposition All Progressives Congress (APC). The move, confirmed on Wednesday, December 25, 2024, is set to alter the balance of power within the state's legislature.
Formal Resignation and Defection Letters Submitted
The lawmakers made their decision official by submitting separate resignation letters to the Speaker of the House. Each letter was explicitly titled "Notice of Resignation from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and Defection to the All Progressives Congress (APC)." This formal communication underscores the calculated and definitive nature of their political crossover.
According to reports, the legislators pointed to deep-seated issues within the PDP as the primary catalyst for their exit. They described a party plagued by "lingering and unresolved crises" which have fostered factional leadership at various levels. This internal disunity, they argued, has negatively impacted governance in the state.
Who Are the Defecting Lawmakers?
The six state legislators who have crossed over to the APC are:
- Hon. Bashar Aliyu Gummi (Representing Gummi I Constituency)
- Hon. Nasiru Abdullahi Maru (Representing Maru North)
- Barr. Bashir Abubakar Masama (Representing Bukkuyum North)
- Hon. Bashir Bello (Representing Bungudu West)
- Hon. Amiru Ahmad Keta (Representing Tsafe West)
- Hon. Muktar Nasir Kaura (Representing Kaura North)
Constitutional Justification for the Move
The defecting members have anchored their action on a specific provision in the nation's constitution. They cited Section 109(1)(g) of the 1999 Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria (as amended), which permits a legislator to change parties if there is a division within their original political party.
By invoking this clause, the lawmakers are seeking to protect their seats from being declared vacant, a common consequence of defection under normal circumstances. Their argument is that the internal crisis and factionalisation within the Zamfara PDP constitute a valid "division" as envisaged by the constitution.
This mass defection represents a substantial blow to the PDP's hold on the Zamfara State House of Assembly and signals a potential shift in the state's political dynamics. It highlights the ongoing challenges of party management and internal democracy within one of Nigeria's major political parties. The APC, on the other hand, stands to gain a stronger voice and potentially more influence in the state's legislative proceedings.
