Taraba Speaker, 15 PDP lawmakers switch to APC

The Speaker of the Taraba State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Kizito Bonzena, has formally stepped down from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).
He explained that his decision to join the All Progressives Congress (APC) stemmed from what he described as deepening factional crises within the PDP at the national level.

Bonzena revealed that 15 additional PDP lawmakers in the Assembly have also submitted letters announcing their defection to the APC.
Among them are Deputy Speaker Hamman Adama Abdullai (Bali 2), Majority Leader Jethro Yakubu (Wukari 1), Tafarki Eneme (Kurmi), Akila Nuhu (Lau), Musa Chul (Gassol 1), and Josiah Yaro (Wukari 2).

The others include Tanko Yusuf (Takum 1), Veronica Alhassan (Bali 1), Anas Shuaibu (Karim Lamido 2), Nelson Len (Nguroje), Umar Adamu (Jalingo 1), Joseph Kassong (Yorro), John Lamba (Takum 2), Happy Shonruba (Ardo-Kola), and Zakari Sanusi (Ibi).

According to the Speaker, the mass defection was made in the overall interest of the state rather than for personal gain.
He said, “Our people should not misread this move. It is for the good of Taraba State. The House now comprises 24 APC members. We urge our citizens to view this as a positive step and continue to support the government.”

Former Speaker Peter Diah, who represents Mbamnga Constituency, welcomed the defectors into the APC. He noted that, despite being in the minority previously, the Assembly had treated APC members fairly, and he is pleased to see all lawmakers aligning with President Bola Tinubu’s vision.

He expressed hope that the development would usher in a new era for the state, now that all legislators belong to the ruling party at the federal level.

With the latest defections, the Taraba State House of Assembly no longer has any minority members.