By Ndahi Marama, Maiduguri

The Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives at the National Assembly, Rt. Hon. Benjamin Kalu has confirmed and acknowledged the receipt of a letter of defection to the ruling All Progressives Congress, APC by the lone House of Representatives member (Askira-Uba/Hawul) Federal Constituency of Borno state, Hon. Dr. Usman Midala Balami, elected on the platform of the opposition Peoples Democratic Party, PDP in 2023 general elections.

Reading out the letters and names of those who defected from their former parties to the APC including Hon. Balami at the floor of the house during plenary on Thursday, the Deputy Speaker welcomed the decampee Honourable Members and wished them well in their new political party, especially the ruling APC.

Recalled that before now, Balami’s defection had shocked many people, especially his supporters as he was sighted at various APC Stakeholders Meeting in Maiduguri, the Borno state recently.

Although, the Lawmaker had earlier announced his decision in a resignation letter dated January 24, 2026, which he addressed to the Chairman of the PDP in Bwalahizhi Ward, Hawul local government area, his defection letter was therefore offically read by the leadership of the National Assembly today (Thursday).

In an interview with our Correspondent in Maiduguri shortly after the plenary, Balami said the decision to quit his former party followed extensive consultations across political lines, as well as discussions with family and close 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 to what he described as a worsening internal squabbles within the PDP which remained unsettled.

According to him, “the deepening crisis and persistent factional divisions within the party have continued to undermine its unity and effectiveness.”

Despite his resignation, Balami expressed appreciation to the PDP for the opportunity to serve under its platform, even as he remained grateful for the support he received while in PDP.

Continuing he said: “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.

“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.

“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.

“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”. The Lawmaker explained.