Kogi PDP Chieftain Abdulrafiu Yakubu Defects to APC, Cites Need for Progressive Politics

In a significant political shift in Kogi State, Abdulrafiu Yakubu, a prominent chieftain of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), has officially defected to the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) along with his supporters.

The announcement was made on Thursday in Lokoja, where Yakubu expressed his disillusionment with the PDP’s capacity to meet the needs of the people in Kogi State, and his renewed commitment to what he described as the progressive ideals of the APC.

Yakubu, who was once a staunch PDP figure, explained that his decision to return to the APC was driven by a critical reassessment of his political journey and consultations with his supporters.

He emphasised that his departure from the PDP was not merely a change of party, but a strategic move to align with a political ideology that truly resonates with his vision for Kogi State.

“Sometimes, you believe you’ve made the right decision, but upon reflection, you realise it’s better to correct course and make the decision right,” Yakubu stated.

“After critically appraising my political journey and engaging in wide consultations with my people, I made the decision to return to my original political home, the All Progressives Congress.”

Yakubu highlighted his long-standing commitment to progressive politics and the pursuit of meaningful development for the people of Kogi State as the primary reasons for his defection.

According to him, the values he holds dear and the aspirations he has for his constituents are best fulfilled under the banner of the APC, a party he believes is dedicated to progress and good governance.

“I have always been a progressive at heart. We have made numerous efforts to seek the progress of our people, and our goals are completely aligned with those of the ruling All Progressives Congress,” he said.

“The current political climate calls for alliances with like-minded progressives, and I have been called upon to realign myself with the APC.”

Yakubu’s defection, along with his large base of supporters, is seen as a significant boost for the APC in Kogi State.

He described his return to the APC as not only a personal decision but as a strategic partnership intended to contribute positively to the political landscape in the state.

He expressed confidence in the leadership of Kogi State Governor Alhaji Ahmed Usman Ododo and pledged to support the governor’s vision and mission for the state.

“Today marks the beginning of good things in conformity with the vision and mission of the Executive Governor of Kogi State, Alhaji Ahmed Usman Ododo, and the leadership down the line,” Yakubu continued.

“Our goal is to integrate into the value chain of the party by playing our part because we are progressives. See me as a partner in progress.”

Yakubu also addressed his supporters and the general public, urging them to view his defection as a loss to the opposition but a significant gain for the APC.

He framed his move as part of the natural cycle of political dynamics, where each ending brings a new beginning.

“In every loss, there is a gain, just as in every gain, there is a loss. With each ending comes a new beginning,” he remarked.

“This is a new beginning, and I am excited to return to where I truly belong.”

The defection of Yakubu and his supporters is expected to further strengthen the APC’s position in Kogi State, especially as the party gears up for future electoral battles.

His return underscores the ongoing fluidity of Nigeria’s political landscape, where alliances and party affiliations continue to shift in response to the evolving priorities of both leaders and their followers.

Yakubu’s defection is a reminder of the importance of aligning personal and political values with broader party objectives, a sentiment he hopes will resonate with other political actors across the state.

As he re-embarks on his political journey with the APC, Yakubu’s move is a testament to his belief in the potential for positive change under a government he describes as truly committed to the progress of Kogi State.