Lagos PDP moves to declare lawmakers’ seats vacant

The Lagos State chapter of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has initiated moves to declare vacant, the seats of six of its lawmakers who defected to the All Progressives Congress (APC).

The defection of the six lawmakers in the State House of Assembly has depleted the opposition rank in the APC dominated house, leaving the PDP with only two members.

In a daring move, the defecting lawmakers were led by the minority leader, Hakeem Bello representing Amuwo Odofin constituency. Others were Fatai Oluwa (Ajeromi Ifelodun 1); Dayo Famakinwa (Ajeromi Ifelodun 2); Mosunmola Sangodara (Surulere 2); Hakeem Shokunle (Oshodi-Isholo 1) and Jude Idimogwu (Oshodi-Isholo 2).

Jolted by the decision, it was learnt that the PDP had written to the Lagos State House of Assembly leadership to declare the lawmakers’ seats vacant, after rejecting their argument which hinged their defection on crisis in the party.

Besides, the PDP asked the state assembly to recognize the opposition leadership of the party through the appointment and recognition of the minority leader and minority whip.

This was also part of the outcome of last week’s general assembly meeting held by the party where it restated support for the Ahmed Makarfi-led National Caretaker Committee.

Spokesman of the party, Mr Taofik Gani, who confirmed the development to Daily Trust, said, “If truly they are popular, they should vacate their seats and come out to test their popularity in an election.”