Rivers West Senator Ipalibo Banigo Dumps PDP for APC, Backs Tinubu’s Reforms
The lawmaker representing Rivers West Senatorial District in the Nigerian Senate, Ipalibo Banigo, has officially resigned from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to join the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC).
Banigo announced her defection during plenary on Tuesday, March 10.
In a letter addressed to the Senate President, Banigo explained that her decision follows extensive consultations with constituents and political allies.
The letter, read aloud to the Red Chamber by Senate President Godswill Akpabio, stated:
“I write to formally inform you and my distinguished colleagues in the Senate of the decision to defect from the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) and subsequently join the All Progressives Congress, APC.”
Banigo also cited the ongoing internal crises within the PDP leadership as a key factor in her decision.
“The decision follows extensive consultations with my constituents, my political associates, and critical stakeholders across my senatorial district, given the prevailing internal divisions, protracted leadership disputes, and ongoing litigations within the People’s Democratic Party, which have adversely affected cohesion. I am convinced that the All Progressive Congress offers a more stable and progressive platform to advance the legislative and developmental agenda of my constituency and the nation at large,” she added.
Speaking on her political journey, Banigo acknowledged the influence of key leaders in her career, including the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, and the Governor of Rivers State, Siminalayi Fubara.
“This decision is also predicated on my resolve to join my political mentor, the Honourable Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, His Excellency Nyesom Wike, and the Executive Governor of Rivers State, His Excellency Siminalayi Fubara, in supporting the President and Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, President Bola Tinubu GCFR, to actualize his re-election bid,” Banigo stated.
The senator also commended President Bola Tinubu’s economic reforms and efforts to promote political stability in Rivers State.
“This decision is also predicated on my resolve… to enable the President to continue his evident economic reforms which have significantly improved the economic situation, enhanced currency stability, and driven numerous infrastructural developments across our dear nation. I sincerely appreciate the president’s fatherly role in fostering political stability and strengthening governance in Rivers state particularly through his peace-building and reconciliation efforts,” she told PulseNets.
Also Read: Rivers Crisis: Petition Seeks Tinubu’s Intervention, Demands Removal of FCT Minister Wike
Banigo concluded by reaffirming her commitment to collaborate with APC lawmakers at both state and national levels to advance development.
“I look forward to working with my colleagues in the APC in the 10th Senate to continue serving the people of Rivers West senatorial district and Nigerians at large,” she said.
