The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) Senate caucus has further reduced to 27 members following the defection of Senator Samaila Dahuwa Kaila from Bauchi North to the All Progressives Congress (APC). His defection was announced on Tuesday during plenary by Senate President Godswill Akpabio, who read Senator Kaila’s letter on the floor of the upper chamber.

With this move, the new composition of the 109-member Senate now stands as follows: APC – 74, PDP – 27, Labour Party – 4, All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA) – 2, New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP) – 1, and Social Democratic Party (SDP) – 1.

In his defection letter, Senator Kaila cited deep-seated internal crises within the PDP as the major reason for leaving. According to him, the persistent divisions in the party have made it difficult for him to perform his duties effectively and in good conscience. “The Peoples Democratic Party has gravely constrained my ability to discharge my constitutional responsibilities effectively. I have found it necessary to realign with a more progressive platform that promotes unity, progress, and good governance,” he wrote.

Senator Kaila also expressed admiration for President Bola Tinubu’s leadership and reform agenda, describing them as “bold and transformative.” He said the President’s initiatives to stabilize the economy and strengthen governance inspired his decision to join the ruling party.

The lawmaker further stated that Tinubu’s “decisive leadership” reflects the kind of direction Nigeria needs. “These reforms align with my conviction to contribute meaningfully to Nigeria’s development and democratic growth,” he added. With his defection, the APC continues to consolidate its majority hold on the Senate.