Kano Senator Hanga Defects To NDC, Cites NNPP Crisis

Senator Rufai Hanga, representing Kano Central, has defected from the New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP) to the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC), citing internal crisis within his former party.

The defection was formally communicated through a letter read on the floor of the Senate by the President of the Senate, Godswill Akpabio, during plenary on Tuesday.

In his letter, Hanga said the decision was necessitated by persistent instability within the NNPP, which he described as detrimental to effective legislative performance.

“The ongoing internal crisis, characterised by factional leadership disputes, conflicting directives, and irreconcilable differences among key stakeholders, has created an unstable political environment that makes it impracticable to effectively discharge my legislative responsibilities on the party’s platform,” he said.

He added that the move followed wide consultations with constituents and political associates, noting that the NDC better reflects his political vision.

“This decision follows extensive consultation with my constituents, political associates, and key stakeholders.

“After careful consideration, I’ve come to the conclusion that the ideals and policy direction of the Nigeria Democratic Congress are more closely aligned with my commitment to effective representation, good governance, and the advancement of democratic values.

“In view of the above, I respectfully request that this letter be accepted by the Senate as a formal notice of my defection to the NDC in accordance with established legislative procedures,” he said.

Following the development, the current party composition in the senate stands at: APC – 89, ADC – 7, PDP – 4, NDC – 3, APGA – 1, NNPP – 0, Accord – 1, and Labour Party – 1.

Meanwhile, three seats remain vacant following the deaths of Senators Godiya Akwashiki, Barinada Mpigi, and Okechukwu Okey Ezea. In addition, Senator Jimoh Ibrahim, has vacated his seat after assuming office as Nigeria’s Permanent Representative and Ambassador Plenipotentiary to the United Nations (UN).