By Abasi Ita
Senator representing Cross River North Senatorial District, Senator Jarigbe Agom Jarigbe, has formally defected from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to the All Progressives Congress (APC) on the floor of the National Assembly. His defection was communicated in a formal letter addressed to the President of the Senate and read during Tuesday’s plenary by the Deputy President of the Senate, Senator Barau Jibrin.
Senator Jarigbe explained that his decision followed prolonged internal crises within the PDP, which he said had made the party incapable of providing a stable platform for service and representation. “I write to formally notify you and the distinguished leadership of the Senate of my resignation from the Peoples Democratic Party, on whose platform I was elected to represent the good people of Cross River North Senatorial District,” he stated.
He expressed regret that the PDP had become deeply factionalised, noting that the divisions had become irreconcilable both at the national and state levels.
Jarigbe stressed that the persistent conflicts undermined the party’s capacity for cohesion, effective leadership, and electoral strength.
“In light of the foregoing and in the best interests of my constituents and my continued pursuit of effective representation, I have decided to join the ranks of the All Progressives Congress,” he added.
The senator said his move to the APC was informed by the desire to align with a more stable and progressive platform that would enable him to deliver on his legislative mandate and the expectations of his constituents.
Senator Jarigbe was received warmly by the APC Senate Caucus, including the Deputy Senate President, Senator Barau Jibrin, the Senate Leader, Senator Opeyemi Bamidele, the Chief Whip, Senator Mohammed Tahir Monguno, and other principal officers who welcomed him into the ruling party.
His defection increases the numerical strength of the APC in the upper chamber and is expected to further boost the ruling party’s influence ahead of the 2027 general elections.