Wada, Top Opposition Figures Dump Parties, Join APC in Kogi

Vice President Kashim Shettima on Monday welcomed former Kogi State governor, Idris Wada, alongside several opposition figures who have defected to the All Progressives Congress in Kogi State. Among the new entrants was the 2023 deputy governorship candidate of the Social Democratic Party in the state, Sam Abenemi, as well as other prominent political leaders.

Addressing the gathering, Shettima expressed delight at the development, describing it as a significant milestone for the APC in Kogi and across Nigeria. He praised Wada’s decision to join the ruling party, noting that the APC continues to attract influential figures because of its commitment to good governance. The Vice President added that the message from Kogi State signals strong support for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu ahead of the 2027 elections.

Speaking on behalf of the defectors, Wada said joining the APC was a timely and strategic decision. He commended President Tinubu’s leadership, citing the removal of fuel subsidy, stabilisation of the naira, and improvements in the economy as key achievements. According to him, these gains inspired their decision to align with the ruling party and work toward the President’s re-election in 2027.

Wada, who obtained his APC membership card on Saturday in Odu, Dekina LGA, served as Kogi State governor from 2012 to 2016 under the PDP. His defection follows a similar wave of high-profile exits from the PDP and Labour Party in Plateau State over the weekend, a development APC leaders say reflects the party’s growing national appeal.