In a move that has added to the growing number of defections in Nigeria’s House of Representatives, Fom Dalyop Chollom of the Labour Party (LP) has officially joined the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC).
The Speaker of the House, Tajudeen Abbas, announced Chollom’s resignation from LP during Tuesday’s plenary session.
Representing the Barkin Ladi/Riyom Federal Constituency of Plateau State, Chollom cited ongoing political turbulence within the Labour Party and a desire for improved representation of his constituents as the reasons behind his decision.
However, his defection sparked controversy within the chamber. Kingsley Chinda, the Minority Leader, and George Ozodinobi, the LP caucus leader in the House, challenged Chollom’s justification, urging the Speaker to declare his seat vacant for violating constitutional provisions.
Their objections were overruled by Abbas, who insisted that the defection complied with parliamentary rules.
Chollom’s switch to the APC was celebrated by a delegation from his new party, including former Plateau State Governor Simon Lalong, who welcomed him into their ranks.
This development follows a similar exodus last week when four other Labour Party lawmakers—Chinedu Okere (Imo State), Mathew Donatus (Kaduna State), Akiba Bassey (Cross River State), and Esosa Iyawe (Edo State)—also defected to the APC, citing internal party crises.
The Labour Party has strongly condemned the defections, labeling them as “unfortunate” and threatening legal action against the defectors.
LP spokesperson Obiora Ifoh stated that the party would pursue court cases to reclaim the affected seats, in line with the 1999 Constitution and the 2022 Electoral Act.
Meanwhile, LP Representative Benedict Etanabene expressed concerns about a broader trend of defections ahead of the 2027 elections.
Speaking on Channels TV’s Politics Today, Etanabene attributed the exodus to fears that LP might not provide a strong platform for reelection bids.
“The wave of defection is linked to the upcoming elections. Many lawmakers are reconsidering their positions, fearing LP is not strategically positioned for 2027,” he said.
The Labour Party continues to face significant challenges as it seeks to consolidate its position as a key opposition force in Nigeria’s political landscape.
