Senate President Godswill Akpabio on Tuesday formally acknowledged the defection of Senator Neda Imasuen from the Labour Party to the All Progressives Congress (APC).

Imasuen, who chairs the Senate Committee on Ethics, Code of Conduct and Public Petitions, represents Edo South Senatorial District. His defection was confirmed in a letter addressed to the Senate President and read during plenary.

In the letter, Imasuen cited the ongoing leadership crisis within the Labour Party as the reason for his departure. He also referenced consultations with constituents and political stakeholders in his district who, he said, supported the move.

The senator stated that joining the APC would enable him to align more closely with the priorities of the current administration and better serve the interests of his constituents.

Following the reading of the letter, Akpabio formally welcomed Imasuen to the ruling party. The Senate President invited him to approach the chair for a handshake, an act symbolising the chamber’s acknowledgement of his new political affiliation.

“Distinguished Senator Neda Imasuen, you shall no longer ‘Labour’ in vain. Your defection has been well documented.

“You may now graciously move to your new party. Kindly approach the chair for a handshake,” he said.

Senate Leader Opeyemi Bamidele also responded to the defection by congratulating Imasuen and encouraging him to contribute to both the party and national development.

Imasuen’s switch adds to the growing number of defections in the National Assembly ahead of the 2027 general elections.