Senator Benson Agadaga, representing Bayelsa East Senatorial District, officially defected to the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) on October 29, 2025, during plenary at the National Assembly.
Agadaga, who was elected on the PDP platform in 2023, announced his decision through a formal letter addressed to Senate President Godswill Akpabio, which was read on the floor of the Senate.
He described the move as "a time for change," lamenting the PDP's descent into "shreds" due to relentless internal wrangling, erosion of discipline, and a lack of inclusiveness that has rendered the once-mighty party unable to function as a credible opposition.
"The umbrella has been bastardised, and it is leaking profusely," Agadaga stated in his letter, invoking the PDP's iconic symbol to portray its fractured state.
He acknowledged the PDP's role in his political ascent, crediting the party when it was "intact and purposeful" for opportunities like his roles as Commissioner for Information, Culture and Tourism; Executive Chairman of the Bayelsa State Universal Basic Education Board; and Chief of Staff in the state government.
"The fact that I stand today as a distinguished senator... is due to the benevolence of the Peoples Democratic Party," he noted, but added that self-interest and discord had now crippled it.
Following the announcement, APC senators warmly welcomed Agadaga, exchanging pleasantries and escorting him to a seat on the majority side of the chamber.
Senate President Akpabio congratulated him and formally inducted him into the APC caucus, boosting the party's Senate strength to 76 out of 109 seats.
This marks the second defection from Bayelsa in recent weeks, after Senator Konbowei Benson (Bayelsa Central) switched parties earlier this month, leaving former Governor Henry Seriake Dickson as the state's sole remaining PDP senator.
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