Nigerian Senators Reportedly Met in London to Finalize Defection Plans

A Nigerian senator, Osita Izunaso of Imo West, has revealed details of a key meeting in London where late Senator Ifeanyi Ubah allegedly committed to defecting from the Young Progressives Party (YPP) to the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC).

Speaking during a valedictory session in honor of Senator Ubah, Izunaso recounted the meeting, which involved Senate President Godswill Akpabio. He noted that this meeting was instrumental in securing Ubah’s defection and solidifying APC’s dominance in the Senate.

Details of the London Agreement

According to Izunaso, the London meeting was a pivotal moment in Ubah’s decision to leave the YPP for the APC. He explained that Akpabio sought assurances from Ubah during their discussions:

“You [Akpabio] asked him, ‘Are you sure you will join the APC?’ and Ubah confirmed his commitment. Despite ongoing court battles involving Ubah, he vowed to switch allegiance immediately,” Izunaso said.

Izunaso further noted that following the meeting, Akpabio promised to inform Nigeria’s Commander-in-Chief about Ubah’s decision. True to his word, Ubah officially joined the APC in October 2023, marking a significant political shift.

Ubah’s Impact on APC in Anambra State

After his defection, Ubah contributed to strengthening the APC’s presence in Anambra State, a region where the party has historically struggled. From 2019 until his defection, Ubah had been the only senator representing the YPP. His move further increased APC’s already substantial majority in the Senate.

Controversy Over Foreign Meetings

The reference to the “popular London meeting” highlights a growing trend among Nigerian public officials to conduct political negotiations in foreign countries such as the UK, France, and the US. These meetings often draw criticism due to their questionable funding and lack of transparency. Despite widespread disapproval from Nigerians, such practices remain common among senators, governors, and even presidents.

Ubah’s Legal Troubles

Ubah’s political journey has not been without challenges. In December 2019, the Asset Management Corporation of Nigeria (AMCON) filed criminal charges against him and his company, Capital Oil, over alleged false claims and a debt of ₦135 billion.

The Federal High Court in Lagos charged Ubah and his company on eight counts related to this alleged indebtedness. In June 2023, Justice Nicholas Oweibo issued criminal summonses against Ubah and Capital Oil, underscoring the legal battles that have shadowed his career.

Conclusion

Ifeanyi Ubah’s defection to the APC underscores the complex dynamics of Nigerian politics, where party allegiance can shift under strategic negotiations. While his contributions to the APC are notable, the ongoing criticisms of foreign political meetings and his unresolved legal issues cast a shadow over his legacy.

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