From Suleiman Abubakar
Hon. Isimbabi Mohammad Garba, the member representing Toto/Gadabuke Constituency at the Nasarawa State House of Assembly, has officially defected from the New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP) to the All Progressives Congress (APC).
The defection is attributed to the ongoing leadership crisis within the NNPP at the national level, which Hon. Isimbabi said made it difficult for the party to function effectively.
In a detailed statement to journalists in Lafia, Hon. Isimbabi highlighted that the NNPP’s constitution permits defections in the event of such a crisis.
His move to the APC aligns with the provisions of the Nigerian constitution and reflects his dedication to serving the best interests of his constituents.
Hon. Isimbabi also praised Governor Abdullahi Sule of Nasarawa State for his impactful projects in Toto/Gadabuke, including road constructions, the building of a mini-stadium, and the elevation of a traditional institution to first class status.
He emphasized that his constituents supported these initiatives during the 2023 elections by voting for Governor Sule under the APC, despite electing him under the NNPP.
A five-member fact-finding committee, led by Hon. Dauda M. Esu, was tasked with investigating the circumstances of the defection.
After reviewing the situation, the committee concluded that Hon. Isimbabi had a justified reason to defect due to the crisis, advising the party leadership to take no punitive action against him.
The committee's report, presented to the NNPP Nasarawa State chapter, acknowledged the significant divisions at the national level of the party, further validating Hon. Isimbabi’s decision to leave.
Reflecting on his journey, Hon. Isimbabi said, "Before my defection, I consulted with NNPP leadership in my constituency, and they all understood and supported my decision.
" He reaffirmed his commitment to his constituency, stating,"The interest of my people supersedes my personal interest."
