The All Progressives Congress has suffered fresh setbacks in the House of Representatives as three of its members formally dumped the ruling party for opposition platforms, signalling deepening realignments ahead of the 2027 general elections.

During plenary, the Speaker of the House of Representatives, Tajudeen Abbas, read separate letters from the lawmakers announcing their resignations from the APC and their new political homes.

Rabilu Bala, who represents Jama’are/Itas-Gadau Federal Constituency of Bauchi State, declared his defection to the Peoples Redemption Party. In his letter, Bala cited persistent internal disagreements within the APC and what he described as troubling developments at both state and national levels. He said extensive consultations with political stakeholders in his constituency convinced him that the PRP offered a more credible platform to advance the interests of his people.

Abubakar Zango, representing Yola North/Yola South/Girei Federal Constituency of Adamawa State, also announced his exit from the APC, moving to the African Democratic Congress. Zango said his decision was guided by conscience and the broader national interest, pledging to continue to discharge his legislative duties diligently and to uphold democratic principles. He assured his constituents that his commitment to effective representation remained firm despite the change of party.

Similarly, the member representing Dukku/Nafada Federal Constituency of Gombe State, identified as Abdullahi, informed the House of his defection from the APC to the ADC, further swelling the ranks of opposition parties in the lower chamber.

The latest movements add to a growing wave of defections as politicians across party lines reposition themselves for the next electoral cycle. While the APC still retains a comfortable majority in the National Assembly, the steady trickle of departures has drawn attention to internal tensions in some state chapters, particularly disputes over internal democracy, leadership structures and succession plans.

The PRP, one of Nigeria’s oldest ideological parties with roots in the progressive politics of the late Aminu Kano, has been working to rebuild its base in parts of northern Nigeria. The ADC has meanwhile become a refuge for politicians seeking alternatives to the country’s dominant parties, amid ongoing coalition talks among opposition figures.

Political analysts say the defections may be a precursor to more dramatic shifts as 2027 approaches, with lawmakers and power brokers aligning with emerging blocs that could reshape the contest for federal power.