Defection wave hits Kogi as APC chieftains join PDP

|By Adejumo Adekunle-

Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan receives ex-party leaders, vows to build unbeatable political base

Scores of loyalists from the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Kogi State have switched allegiance to the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), throwing their weight behind Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan in what observers call a political turning point in Kogi Central.

The high-profile defection took place in Ihima, Okehi Local Government Area, where Senator Natasha welcomed the former APC members. Among them were Hassan Yusuf, a former Okehi LG chairman; Hajia Rafatu Haruna, Special Adviser to the Council Chairman; and Omuya Longman, an APC stalwart—all of whom crossed over with their supporters.

Addressing the crowd, Senator Natasha emphasized that her political strategy is deeply rooted in grassroots engagement and inclusion. She declared that the PDP is not only gaining strength in Kogi Central but also positioning itself as a party that cannot be defeated in a genuinely democratic contest across the country.

“My responsibility is to strengthen the PDP and bring more people into our fold,” the senator stated. “We are building a structure that reflects the people’s hopes, not political intimidation.”

She further called for a return to ideology-driven politics in Nigeria, warning that when parties lack clear beliefs, they resort to violence and coercion.

The PDP Chairman in Kogi State, Enemona Anyebe, described the mass defection as a strong endorsement of Senator Natasha’s growing influence. He said her leadership style is attracting both the disillusioned and the determined, cementing her role as a rallying point for political change.

Political analysts believe this development could reshape the political dynamics in the state ahead of future elections.