Senator Neda Imasuen, Chairman of the Senate Committee on Ethics, Code of Conduct and Public Petitions, announced plans to leave the Labour Party (LP) and join the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC). Representing Edo South Senatorial District, Imasuen said he would formally defect on June 12 in Benin City. He described the Labour Party as lacking leadership and direction, calling it “in shreds” and unable to present a clear national chairman. He expressed concern that ongoing internal conflicts might prevent the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) from recognizing the party’s candidates.
Imasuen criticized the LP for being disconnected from Nigerians’ needs and for failing to offer a clear and forward-looking agenda. He explained his decision to join the APC by praising President Bola Tinubu’s leadership and bold policies aimed at national development. The senator said supporting Tinubu is essential to advance Nigeria’s growth and that the APC offers a stronger platform to serve his constituents and promote progressive reforms.
He commended President Tinubu’s courage in tackling difficult issues others avoided, highlighting that this bravery is vital for Nigeria’s progress. Imasuen’s defection raises the APC’s Senate count to 69, further strengthening its majority.
In a related shift, two Akwa Ibom PDP senators, Sampson Ekong and Etim Bassey Aniekan, also defected to the APC, following Governor Umo Eno’s recent defection. This will increase the APC Senate membership to 71 once officially announced. The new Senate composition will be APC 71, PDP 28, LP 4, NNPP 1, SDP 2, and APGA 1.
