APC Executives, Members Defect to PDP in Kogi, Declare Support for Natasha’s 2027 Re-Election Bid
Several APC members and executives in Kogi Central have defected to the PDP, pledging support for Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan’s re-election bid in a move that could reshape the region’s political landscape ahead of 2027.
The political landscape in Kogi Central witnessed a fresh realignment on Monday as scores of members of the All Progressives Congress (APC), including key ward executives in Adavi Local Government Area, defected to the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), declaring support for the re-election of Senator Natasha Hadiza Akpoti-Uduaghan.
The defectors, drawn largely from Adavi West, included prominent party officials and grassroots mobilisers who formally announced their resignation from the ruling APC during a reception organised by the PDP in Kogi Central.
The development is being viewed by political observers as another indication of intensifying political activities ahead of the 2027 general elections, particularly in Kogi Central Senatorial District where Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan remains one of the most influential political figures.
Addressing party supporters and the new entrants, Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan welcomed the defectors, describing their decision as a reflection of growing confidence in the PDP and its vision for inclusive governance and people-oriented leadership.
She said the party remained committed to principles of fairness, accountability, justice and equal opportunity, assuring the new members of full integration into its structures.
According to the senator, the PDP remains open to individuals willing to contribute to the advancement of democratic values and community development across Kogi State.
“Our party is built on the ideals of justice, equity and service to the people. We welcome everyone who shares our commitment to genuine development and effective representation,” she said.
The senator urged party members to remain united and focused on grassroots mobilisation, stressing that political success is driven by collective effort, discipline and dedication to public service.
She also called on supporters to continue promoting peaceful political engagement and democratic participation across communities in the district.
Speaking on behalf of the defectors, some of the former APC members cited what they described as their confidence in the senator’s leadership style and representation at the National Assembly as reasons for joining the PDP.
They pledged to work for the growth of the opposition party in Adavi and other parts of Kogi Central while mobilising support for Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan’s second-term ambition.
The defectors also expressed readiness to strengthen the PDP’s grassroots structures ahead of future electoral contests in the state.
The latest defections come amid growing political manoeuvring across Kogi State as parties and aspirants begin consultations and strategic engagements ahead of the next election cycle.
Analysts believe the movement of party officials and grassroots leaders from the APC to the PDP could have implications for political calculations in Kogi Central, where competition for influence among major political parties is expected to intensify in the coming months.
For the PDP, the influx of new members is expected to bolster its organisational strength in Adavi Local Government Area and reinforce efforts to expand its support base across the senatorial district.