ABUJA – Senator representing Plateau Central Senatorial District, Joshua Dariye yestrrday crossed the carpet from his hitherto Peoples Democratic Party to the All Progressives Congress.
Dariye a former governor of Plateau State, on the platform of (PDP) announced his decamp in a letter to Senate President Bukola Saraki, which he read to senators shortly before they adjourned plenary till Tuesday next week.
Sen. Dariye cited divisions in the PDP as reason for his decision adding that he had to do so after consultations with his supporters who have all moved to the ruling APC.
Briefing journalists later on the development, Sen. Dariye refuted insinuations that his action has anything to do with getting the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) off his back.
The former governor has been facing charges of corruption and money laundering by the Commission, and is believed to have decamped to APC as a soft landing to easing his burdens.
Reacting, he said that his action “was born out of personal conviction and the need to tag along with his supporters, as well as the zeal to serve them better”.
With Sen. Dariye’s decision, the ruling APC now has 59 senators, PDP – 43 senators and Labour Party – 1 senator.
Meanwhile, senators-elect from Imo (APC) and Kogi (PDP) are yet to be sworn-in, while Rivers State is yet to be represented at the Senate.
