Massive defections from the governing All Progressives Congress (APC) to the opposition Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) occurred on July 20, 2025, resulting in a significant upheaval in the political landscape of Kogi Central. This marked a seismic change ahead of the 2027 general elections. Senator Natasha Hadiza Akpoti-Uduaghan was at the forefront of this political shift; her charisma and leadership have made her a formidable opponent to the APC in the area.
As Senator Natasha formally welcomed defectors into the PDP fold, hundreds gathered in the APC stronghold of Ihima, Okehi Local Government Area, to see the ceremony. Notable figures from the five local government areas of Kogi Central—Okene, Okehi, Adavi, Ajaokuta, and Ogori-Magongo—among the defectors included the former Okehi Council Chairman, Hon. Hassan Yusuf; the Special Adviser to the Council Chairman, Hajia Rafatu Haruna; and a longtime member of the APC, Hon. Omuya Longman.
The mood was electrifying as deflectors waved party flags, shouted pro-PDP chants, and voiced their disappointment with the APC's performance in government. Many saw the defection as a direct protest against the APC's broken promises, policies that made life harder for the average citizen, and a leadership style that didn't seem to care about the people's problems.
At the event that was hosted at Senator Natasha's Okene home, she gave a stirring speech that emphasized her dedication to real representation and grassroots mobilization. Natasha said, "Politics is local, and that's exactly how we are playing it," reiterating her commitment to expanding PDP's influence beginning at the grassroots level. She portrayed the mass resignations as a movement of the people standing up against injustice and inaction, and she urged all factions to put an end to violence and intimidation by prioritizing transparent beliefs based on the values held by the people.
Hon. Enemona Anyebe, the PDP State Chairman, called the defections a "political earthquake" and an important validation of Natasha's influential leadership and service. He characterized the political tides as changing against the APC and invited recruits to completely integrate with the PDP as partners in regaining Kogi. Erstwhile House of Representatives member Hon. Abdulrahman Badamasiu reiterated similar thoughts, applauding Natasha’s compassion and service-oriented record that has gained universal acclaim, even from erstwhile opponents.
The defections comprised a broad range of political actors: past local government chairmen, councilors’ hopefuls, ward leaders, women leaders, youth mobilizers, and grassroots opinion leaders who felt ignored by the APC and inspired by Natasha’s vision. Many highlighted the APC’s inability to deliver on development and inclusivity as major motivations behind their choices to switch loyalties. Ismail Adoke, a former APC ward leader, recorded the moment: “We have followed the APC for too long without results. Natasha has shown us true representation – empowerment, employment, and accessible leadership. This is redemption.”
Cultural dances, music, and ardent speeches celebrated the event, honoring what supporters dubbed the “political renaissance” of Kogi Central. Security was tight, but the ceremony remained calm despite the massive audience, underlining the severity and historic significance of the defection wave.
Observers observe that this event drastically affects the political calculation in Kogi Central. With Senator Natasha’s rising popularity and deliberate grassroots consolidation, the PDP is consolidating its grip and laying the ground for a possible breakthrough in the 2027 elections. Natasha’s support for underprivileged communities, visible empowerment initiatives, and strong stance against injustice have driven her to become a uniting figure outside conventional party boundaries.
The APC’s loss of important local leaders and followers may hurt its election chances, especially if defections gain pace and change voter alliances. This realignment underlines the significance of true representation and responsive leadership, showing that voters in Kogi Central are preferring service and inclusivity above party allegiance.
In her final comments, Senator Natasha advised all political parties in Nigeria to adopt clear ideas reflecting the people’s aspirations to avoid the dangers of violence and intimidation. “I hope we get to a point where each political party defines its beliefs and truth,” she remarked, underlining the need for a healthy political atmosphere.
As the 2027 general elections near, Kogi Central’s political dynamics predict substantial change with Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan in the vanguard, championing a people-first politics that might alter the state’s direction and threaten the APC’s control.
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