Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan Receives Key APC Defectors in Kogi Central

The All Progressives Congress (APC) has lost several senior figures and supporters in Kogi State, as defections to the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) gathered momentum over the weekend.

The latest shift took place on Sunday in Ihima, Okehi Local Government Area, a region where the APC has traditionally held strong influence. Among those who left the ruling party were former local government chairman Hassan Yusuf, former adviser Hajia Rafatu Haruna, and long-time party figure Omuya Longman.

They were received by Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan of the PDP, who currently represents Kogi Central in the National Assembly.

Speaking at the gathering, Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan described the move as part of a “quiet realignment” happening at the grassroots level.

“Politics is local, and that’s exactly how we’re playing it,” she said. “We are not only strengthening the PDP in Kogi Central but contributing to its growth as a formidable force, both nationally and across Africa.”

She also underscored the need for clearly defined political values, warning that the absence of ideology often gives way to instability. “When ideology fails, politics descends into violence and intimidation,” she added.

Welcoming the new members, PDP State Chairman Hon. Enemona Anyebe said their decisions reflected growing dissatisfaction within the APC’s base in the region.

Also present was former MP Abdulrahman Badamasiu, who credited Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan’s leadership style and record of performance for the defections.

The event drew several PDP leaders, including Deputy State Chairman Yahaya Karaku, State Secretary Sunday Olufemi Ibrahim, Publicity Secretary Umar Ibrahim, State Auditor Jude Sule, and Women Leader Esther Albert Soje.

The defections are the latest in a series of shifts that point to mounting tensions within the APC’s ranks in Kogi Central.