By Joshua Tosin Ogunsakin 
The Labour Party has been hit by a wave of defections, with at least 17 prominent members leaving the party since 2023.
The exodus is attributed to the ongoing leadership crisis within the party, which has created an uncertain environment for politicians seeking to advance their careers.
The defections are a significant blow to the Labour Party, which had gained momentum in the 2023 elections, particularly among young voters, thanks to the influence of Peter Obi.
However, with the party’s internal crisis deepening, many of its key members have opted to join the All Progressives Congress (APC) or the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) instead.
Among those who have defected are several high-profile politicians, including senators and representatives from various states.
Their decision to leave the Labour Party is seen as a strategic move to pursue their future ambitions in a more stable and supportive political environment.
The mass defection has raised concerns about the future of the Labour Party, which is struggling to maintain its relevance in the Nigerian political landscape.
As the party’s leadership crisis continues to unfold, it remains to be seen how it will recover from this significant loss of talent and momentum.
Below is the full list of the politicians:
S/N Name (States)
1 Kenneth Okonkwo (Enugu)
2 Doyin Okupe (Ogun)
3 Hon. Dalyop Chollom (Plateau)
4 Comrade Isaac Balami (Borno)
5 Tochukwu Chinedu Okere (Imo)
6 Erhiatake Ibori-Suenu (Delta)
7 Olukayode Salako (Lagos)
8 Udengs Eradiri (Bayelsa)
9 Ezenwa Onyewuchi (Imo)
10 David Ameh (Kaduna)
11 Paschal Obi (Imo)
12 Valentine Ozigbo (Anambra)
13 Donatus Matthew (Kaduna)
14 Hon. Esosa Iyawe (Edo)
15 Alfred Iliya (Plateau)
16 Lasun Yusuf (Osun)
17 Bassey Akiba (Cross River)
Tribune