Ipalibo Banigo, the senator representing Rivers West Senatorial District, defected from the Peoples Democratic Party to the All Progressives Congress. She announced the switch on March 10, 2026.
Godswill Akpabio, the Senate President, read Banigo’s formal letter during the Senate plenary session that day. The announcement marked a significant shift in Rivers State politics.
Banigo Announces Defection In Letter
Banigo informed her colleagues directly through the letter. She wrote, “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.”
She also used stronger language in parts of the letter. Banigo added, “I rise to formally inform you and my distinguished colleagues of the Senate of the decision to defect from the People’s Democratic Party and subsequently join the APC.”
Lawmaker Cites Internal Party Problems
Banigo pointed to serious issues inside the PDP as a major factor. She explained that the party faced internal divisions, protracted leadership disputes and ongoing litigations that hurt its unity.
Furthermore, Banigo carried out wide consultations before she acted. She stated, “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.”
Senator Seeks Stable Platform
Additionally, Banigo believed the All Progressives Congress offered better conditions for her work. She wrote, “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.”Moreover, she chose to align with leaders from her home state.
Banigo Aligns With Fubara And Wike
Banigo decided to work with Siminalayi Fubara, the governor of Rivers State. She also joined her political mentor, Nyesom Wike, the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory.
She declared in the letter, “This decision is also predicated on my resolve to join my political mentor, the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, and the Governor of Rivers State, Siminalayi Fubara, in supporting President Bola Tinubu, to actualize his re-election bids and 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.”
Senator Backs Tinubu Administration
Furthermore, Banigo praised the president’s achievements. She highlighted improvements in the economy, currency stability and infrastructure projects across Nigeria.
She also expressed support for Senator Oluremi Tinubu, the First Lady. Banigo wrote that she remained committed to backing the first lady’s efforts to improve lives for Nigerians.
