Kogi Politics: Is the PDP Really Collapsing, or Is This Just the Usual Song and Dance?

Reports out of Kogi State suggest the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) is losing ground, specifically in Takete Ide/Otafun Ward. Former PDP leaders, including a ward chairman and a councillor, have apparently switched allegiance to the All Progressives Congress (APC), citing Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo’s “outstanding performance” as the motivator.

Such defections are always interesting to watch. The reasons given are, of course, glowing: the governor’s achievements, his leadership qualities, a desire to contribute to the state’s development. We’ve heard it all before. Yet, the defection of local leaders can signal shifts in the political environment.

The APC is naturally playing this up. The Commissioner for Information and Communications, Kingsley Femi Fanwo, was quoted as saying the governor’s performance is “killing the opposition.” Strong words. The implication is clear: success breeds success, and everyone wants to be on the winning side.

Still, a healthy dose of skepticism is warranted. Political landscapes are fluid. These types of shifts are pretty normal.

Here’s what strikes me: the language used. “Mass defections,” “key stakeholders,” “significant blow.” It feels amplified. Are these truly grassroots movements driven by genuine admiration for the governor, or are there other factors at play – perhaps promises made, positions offered? It’s hard to say for sure without being on the ground.

In any case, this development does highlight the APC’s current dominance in Kogi. But dominance can be fleeting. The real test will come in future elections, and whether Governor Ododo can truly deliver on the promises that supposedly inspired these defections. It’s worth noting: performance, not just promises, ultimately decides political fates.