Moses Ofodeme
In a significant political shift, hundreds of supporters from the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) and the African Democratic Congress (ADC) in Yagba West Local Government Area have defected to the All Progressives Congress (APC), marking what many have described as the end of opposition politics in the area.
Speaking on behalf of the new APC members, Chief Abayomi Oju expressed their reasons for the mass defection, citing the outstanding performance of the Governor, His Excellency, Alhaji Ahmed Usman Ododo.
“We have seen the tremendous impact of the Ododo Administration on our community. The Governor has transformed our township roads, and his influence is evident across every sector. We cannot, in good conscience, oppose a leader who has delivered so much for our people. It will be impossible to campaign against him in 2027, considering his exceptional achievements,” Chief Oju stated.
Also speaking, Hon. Remi Bamsa, another decampee, emphasized the leadership qualities of both Governor Ododo and the Yagba West LGA Chairman, Hon. Tosin Olokun, as the driving force behind their decision to join the APC.
“Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo is a God-sent leader for Kogi State. We simply cannot remain in the opposition when such a visionary is leading the state. Moreover, our LGA Chairman, Hon. Tosin Olokun, whose humility and performance have inspired us, has made our transition into the APC possible,” Hon. Bamsa said.
Addressing the decampees, Hon. Tosin Olokun, Chairman of Yagba West LGA and Kogi State ALGON, expressed his gratitude to the new members for choosing the APC, reaffirming that the Governor was fully supportive of their decision.
“We welcome all of you into our progressive family,” said Hon. Olokun. “The Governor is proud of your choice to align with his vision for a prosperous Kogi State. Together, we will build a brighter future.”
The event also saw messages of support from other key APC figures, including the immediate past Assembly Member for the Constituency, Hon. Deronke Aro, and other prominent party leaders.
The decampees, along with their large following, pledged their full commitment to ensuring a resounding victory for the APC in the 2027 elections. In a show of unity, the people of Yagba West LGA collectively endorsed President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo for a second term in office.
This mass defection is seen as a major boost for the APC in Kogi State, signaling the growing strength of the ruling party as the 2027 elections approach.
The event was graced by party leaders as well as elected and appointed government officials at all level.