The two chambers of the National Assembly resumes plenary today after a four-week recess that provided senators and members of the House of Representatives the opportunity to return to their constituencies and participate in party primaries, either to seek re-election or contest for other elective offices.
The outcome of the exercises, particularly within the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), significantly altered the political fortunes of many lawmakers, with dozens losing return tickets, while others were prevented from contesting due to provisions of the amended Electoral Act.
Senators caught by anti-defection law
No fewer than 20 serving senators failed to secure nominations during the APC senatorial primaries. While some lost at the polls, others were disqualified during the screening process.
Among those barred from participating were lawmakers who recently defected from opposition parties and sought APC tickets. They include Benson Agadaga (Bayelsa East), Garba Maidoki (Kebbi South) and Banigo Ipalibo (Rivers West).
