By Musa Baba Adamu
Senator Mohammed Ogoshi Onawo has joined the Allied Peoples Movement (APM) after resigning from the African Democratic Congress (ADC) last month.
The Senator, who represents Nasarawa South in the Senate had cited internal crisis and unending litigations as reason for leaving his former party.
The Senator’s defection was formally announced on the floor of the Senate Wednesday after a letter conveying his decision was read by the Deputy President of the Senate, Jibrin Barau, who presided over Tuesday’s plenary.
According to the letter, Onawo’s resignation from the ADC took effect on June 15 following extensive consultations with his constituents, political associates and other stakeholders.
He attributed his decision to what he described as prevailing internal problems within the party, including structural issues and ongoing legal disputes, which he said had undermined the unity and support required for him to effectively represent the people of Nasarawa South Senatorial District.
Onawo said his move to the APM would enable him to continue pursuing his legislative mandate, while expressing appreciation to his supporters for their continued confidence.
Reacting to the development, Aminu Tambuwal acknowledged that the lawmaker had exercised his constitutional right to freedom of association and wished him success in his new political platform.
During the plenary, Barau observed that it was noteworthy that the ADC was already experiencing defections despite presenting itself as a major opposition platform.
His remarks, however, drew an objection from Tambuwal, who urged the presiding officer to remain neutral while conducting Senate proceedings.
Barau accepted the observation but maintained that the occupant of the chair is entitled to make guiding remarks during legislative deliberations.
