The All Progressives Grand Alliance has urged the Senate to declare the seat of Senator Enyinnaya Abaribe vacant, following his defection from the party to the African Democratic Congress, describing the move as unconstitutional and a betrayal of his mandate.
The party made the demand in a communiqué issued after a meeting of its National Working Committee in Awka, Anambra State, on Friday.
According to the statement, which was signed by its National Publicity Secretary, Mazi Ejimofor Opara, APGA insisted that Abaribe, who represents Abia South Senatorial District, forfeited his seat by abandoning the platform on which he was elected.
The party maintained that the defection lacked legal backing and called on the Senate leadership, headed by Senate President Godswill Akpabio, to enforce relevant constitutional provisions by declaring the seat vacant.
Abaribe was among about 10 senators who reportedly announced their defection to the ADC in March, with their letters read during plenary.
Condemning the move, APGA described it as a breach of trust by elected representatives, stressing that the mandate belonged to the party and the electorate, not individuals.
“The NWC calls on the Senate leadership to invoke relevant provisions of the Constitution and declare his seat vacant in view of the betrayal of the mandate entrusted to him,” the communiqué stated.
Despite its demand, the party commended the Senate leadership for what it described as its commitment to democratic principles and constitutional order in handling issues surrounding defections.
The committee also directed party officials at all levels to maintain discipline and uphold internal regulations, particularly as preparations intensify for the 2026 primary elections, warning that violations would attract sanctions.
On electoral reforms, APGA applauded the passage of the Electoral Act 2026 and lauded President Bola Tinubu for promptly assenting to the legislation.
It noted that the new law would enhance transparency and strengthen the Independent National Electoral Commission’s preparations for the 2027 general elections.
The party further highlighted key provisions in the Act, including reforms to party primaries and the digitisation of membership records, describing them as measures aligned with global best practices.
As part of its build-up to the next general elections, the NWC approved the organisation of stakeholders’ conferences across the six geopolitical zones and ratified the timetable for its 2026 primaries.
The party also raised concerns over the worsening security situation in the country, urging the Federal Government to intensify efforts to address the challenge.