The Majority Leader of the Benue State House of Assembly, Thomas Dugeri, has defected from the All Progressives Congress, APC, to the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP.Dugeri, who represents Kwande West Constituency, was formally received into the PDP by former Benue Governor and party leader, Samuel Ortom, in Abuja.According to reports, the lawmaker met Ortom at his Abuja residence for the first time since announcing his decision to leave the APC.
He was presented to the former governor by the Benue PDP Deputy Chairman, Adzua Ashongo, in the presence of other party members and supporters.Speaking after his reception, Dugeri thanked Ortom and other PDP leaders for accepting him and his supporters. He also appreciated PDP members in Kwande and across the state for the warm reception.
The lawmaker said he was ready to work with the PDP leadership to strengthen the party ahead of the 2027 general elections. He noted that his defection was motivated by the need to align with party leaders and stakeholders to achieve the party’s political objectives.While receiving Dugeri, Ortom assured him and his supporters of fair treatment alongside existing members.
“The PDP remains open to people willing to contribute to its growth. Both old and new members have roles to play in rebuilding the party,” Ortom said.He urged Dugeri and other PDP members to unite and work towards repositioning the party to reclaim power in Benue in 2027.
