By Noah Ocheni, Lokoja
In a significant political development, thousands of members from various political parties in Kogi West have defected to the All Progressives Congress (APC) at a ceremony held at the Itedo Makutu Open Space in Isanlu, Yagba East Local Government Area.
The mass defection is seen as a fulfillment of Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo’s promise to strengthen the APC, highlighting his loyalty and commitment to the party.
The defection event, which took place on Saturday, July 5, 2025, underscores Governor Ododo’s growing influence and the increasing appeal of the APC in the region.
Governor Ododo expressed confidence in the party’s chances in the upcoming 2027 general elections, citing the party’s unity and the goodwill generated by his administration.
Speaking at the event, Governor Ododo said, “Leaders and members of our great party, we are here today because someone has provided us the platform. I rise to appreciate His Excellency, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu. We want to tell Mr. President that we in Kogi State are not ingrates. I am standing here to say that we in Kogi are not hungry and we are not angry. If anyone says Nigerians are hungry and angry, we are not part of them.”
The governor also extended gratitude to former Governor Yahaya Adoza Bello, vowing to carry forward his leadership legacy throughout his administration.
Welcoming the defectors, Ododo said, “I welcome all the decampees to the All Progressives Congress (APC).” He pledged to address security challenges in Yagba East LGA and warned residents and traditional rulers against collaborating with criminal elements.
The Acting National Chairman of the APC, Alhaji Bukar Dalori, represented by Mazu Bawa Rijau, formally welcomed the new members and presented them with the party flag. “On behalf of the National Acting Chairman of our great party, I formally welcome you to the APC,” he said.
Former Governor Yahaya Adoza Bello also addressed the gathering, stating, “I am here today at this historic event to receive our members who went on an adventure but have now returned. While President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has no intention of turning Nigeria into a one-party system, Kogi will become a one-party state.” He reaffirmed Kogi’s commitment to President Tinubu’s mandate.
It will be recalled that on June 20, 2025, Governor Ododo reaffirmed his loyalty to the APC during a visit to the party’s national secretariat, declaring his unwavering support for President Tinubu’s 2027 re-election bid.
During the visit, he expressed deep appreciation to the National Working Committee (NWC) for its support during his election and in the early days of his administration.
Saturday’s massive defection to the APC further positions Governor Ododo as a man of his word and a leader delivering on his promises.
The event is being hailed as a clear demonstration of Ododo’s effective leadership and the APC’s growing strength in Kogi State.
