Former Kogi East Senator Nicholas Ugbane Defects to APC, Cites National Interest

By Muslimat Itopa

A former senator who represented Kogi East Senatorial District, Senator Nicholas Ugbane, has defected from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to the All Progressives Congress (APC), citing alignment with national interest and the need to better serve his constituents.

Senator Ugbane formally announced his defection during a visit to the Kogi State Governor, Alhaji Ahmed Usman Ododo, at the Government House in Lokoja, where he arrived alongside a large number of supporters.

Speaking Senator Necolas Ugbane described his decision as a turning point in his political career, following extensive consultations with constituents, political associates, and family members.

“I stand before you at a defining moment in my political journey. After deep reflection and wide consultations, I have resolved to leave the PDP and pitch my tent with the APC. This decision was not taken lightly; it is borne out of conviction and commitment to the future of our people,” he said.

The former lawmaker explained that his move to the APC was driven by what he described as a shared vision for national development under the ruling party.

“One may ask why I am joining the APC. The answer is simple I am returning home. Nigeria today requires unity of purpose beyond partisan divides. The Renewed Hope Agenda of the APC-led Federal Government presents a practical roadmap for addressing our economic, security, and infrastructural challenges,” Ugbane stated.

He added that difficult reforms such as the removal of fuel subsidy and the unification of the foreign exchange system, though challenging, were necessary steps toward stabilizing the nation’s economy.

Ugbane further emphasized that his primary loyalty remains with the people of Kogi East, stressing that remaining in opposition could limit access to critical development opportunities for the district.

“The interests of my constituents can no longer be served by opposition for its own sake. To attract federal projects and influence national policy, we must be part of the decision-making process, and the APC provides that platform,” he said.

The former senator also cited internal challenges within the PDP, including what he described as persistent crises, litigations, and a departure from its founding ideals, as contributing factors to his defection.

He called on his supporters to join him in the APC, assuring them that his move was not a betrayal of shared values but a strategic step toward achieving greater development.

Responding, Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo warmly welcomed Ugbane into the APC, describing him as a respected statesman whose decision to join the ruling party would strengthen governance and unity in the state.

“I have nothing more to say than to thank him. What will a child say to his father? You have come to offer your guidance, support, and prayers. Your decision to join us is a demonstration of patriotism and commitment to the people,” the governor said.

Governor Ododo noted that Ugbane’s defection was based on careful evaluation rather than political pressure, adding that the APC remains a platform committed to delivering good governance.

“Baba is back home. He took his time to assess what we are doing and decided to come and add value. This is a message to all of us that we must continue to work together in unity for the progress of our state,” he added.

The governor further assured the former senator of respect and inclusion, emphasizing the importance of collective efforts in addressing the state’s challenges and delivering dividends of democracy.

In his remarks, the Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs and former APC State Chairman, Abdullahi Bello, described Ugbane as a political heavyweight and a household name in Kogi East, expressing confidence that his entry into the APC would boost the party’s strength in the region.

Similarly, the APC State Chairman, Alhaji Ezzu Aliyu Momoh, formally presented the party’s symbol the broom to the former senator, welcoming him into the party and expressing optimism that he would contribute significantly to its growth.

The defection of Senator Ugbane is seen as a major political development in Kogi State, with analysts suggesting it could reshape the political landscape ahead of future elections by strengthening the APC’s influence in Kogi East.