Borno State lawmaker, Hon. Midala Balami
Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives of Nigeria, Benjamin Kalu, on Thursday formally announced the defection of Hon. Midala Balami, the lawmaker representing Askira-Uba/Hawul Federal Constituency of Borno State, from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to the All Progressives Congress (APC).
Kalu confirmed receipt of Balami’s defection letter during plenary at the National Assembly Complex in Abuja while reading out the names and letters of lawmakers who recently switched political parties.
Welcoming the defecting members, the Deputy Speaker wished them well in their new political party, particularly the ruling APC.
Defection Had Earlier Stirred Reactions
Balami’s move had earlier generated reactions in political circles, particularly among his supporters, after he was seen attending APC stakeholders’ meetings in Maiduguri, the Borno State capital.
Although the lawmaker had previously communicated his decision through a resignation letter dated January 24, 2026, addressed to the chairman of the PDP in Bwalahizhi Ward of Hawul Local Government Area, the formal announcement of his defection was only read on the floor of the House on Thursday.
Speaking with journalists shortly after plenary, Balami explained that his decision followed extensive consultations with political leaders, family members, and associates.
“After wide consultations with leaders across political parties, as well as friends, family, and loved ones, I have found it necessary to tender my resignation from the Peoples Democratic Party with immediate effect,” he stated.
The lawmaker attributed his exit from the party to what he described as unresolved internal disputes within the PDP.
According to him, “the deepening crisis and persistent factional divisions within the party have continued to undermine its unity and effectiveness.”
Appreciation to PDP Despite Exit
Despite leaving the party, Balami expressed gratitude to the PDP leadership for the opportunity to serve under its platform.
“Despite being the only elected PDP member from Borno State at the National Assembly, I remained steadfast in my commitment to the people of Askira-Uba/Hawul Federal Constituency and to the legislative responsibilities entrusted to me.
“Through resilience, dedication, and a strong sense of duty, I worked tirelessly to ensure that the voice and interests of my constituents were effectively represented at the national level.”
He added that during his time in the National Assembly, he sponsored several legislative initiatives aimed at addressing key national and constituency issues.
“In the course of my service, I successfully sponsored and pushed forward over ten (12) Bills and fifteen (15) Motions of critical importance, addressing key issues affecting my constituency and contributing to national development.
“These legislative interventions focused on infrastructure development, education, security, humanitarian response, community development, and policies aimed at improving the wellbeing of Nigerians.”
Support for Zulum, Tinubu Administration
Balami also confirmed that he has formally joined the APC to continue contributing to the development of Borno State and the country.
“Subsequent to my resignation, I have formally joined the All Progressives Congress (APC) in order to continue contributing meaningfully to the development and progress of Borno State and Nigeria.
“My decision is guided by my commitment to support the leadership and development agenda of His Excellency, Prof. Babagana Umara Zulum, Executive Governor of Borno State; His Excellency, Umar Usman Kadafur, Deputy Governor of Borno State; His Excellency, Bola Ahmed Tinubu, President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria; and His Excellency, Kashim Shettima, Vice President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.”
He concluded by appreciating the PDP for the platform it gave him during his time in the party.
“I sincerely appreciate the Peoples Democratic Party and its leadership for the opportunity, platform, and experiences gained during my time in the party. The support and cooperation extended to me remain deeply valued.”
