The All Progressives Congress (APC) is just two senators away from clinching a two-thirds majority in the Nigerian Senate, following the defection of four senators from the opposition Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) on Wednesday.
This development significantly tilts the balance of power in favor of the ruling party. With a two-thirds majority—permitted by Nigeria’s constitution—the APC would have enough seats to pass key legislation, approve executive requests, and amend laws with little or no input from the opposition.
While APC supporters hail the gains as a sign of political strength and unity, analysts and pro-democracy advocates are raising concerns. “What we’re witnessing is not just political consolidation—it’s the slow erasure of checks and balances,” said Abuja-based political analyst Tunde Olayemi. “A dominant ruling party in a fragile democracy like Nigeria’s can undermine legislative independence and democratic accountability.”
This shift comes amid growing criticism of the APC-led government’s economic and security policies. Critics argue that such overwhelming control in the National Assembly could embolden authoritarian decision-making, weaken democratic debate, and silence dissent.
The PDP, now struggling to hold ground in both chambers of the National Assembly, has yet to issue a formal response to the defections.
