A former governorship aspirant in Benue State, Okokwu Ogenyi, has cautioned that the recent wave of defections to the All Progressives Congress (APC) is largely driven by personal political ambitions rather than a genuine alignment with the party’s ideology. Ogenyi, who also serves on the governing council of the Nigeria French Language Village in Badagry, Lagos, made this observation in an interview with Media Talk Africa.
According to Ogenyi, while some politicians are indeed drawn to the APC’s policies under President Tinubu, others are motivated by a desire to secure re-election or protect their political interests. He noted that the distinction between these two groups is crucial, as it highlights the complexities of political defections in Nigeria. Ogenyi cited the recent defection of the Governor of Enugu State from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to the APC as a case in point, suggesting that such moves are often the result of careful political calculation rather than a deep-seated commitment to the party’s ideology.
Ogenyi’s comments come at a time when the APC is experiencing a significant influx of new members, with many politicians seeking to join the party’s ranks. While this trend may be seen as a positive development for the APC, Ogenyi warned that it also poses a risk of internal conflicts if newcomers do not align with the party’s progressive goals. He emphasized the importance of remaining committed to party ideologies, rather than simply switching allegiance for personal gain.
In Ogenyi’s view, the key to political success lies not in the number of defectors a party can attract, but rather in its ability to deliver on its promises and communicate effectively with the public. He argued that a party’s achievements, as well as its ability to foster public trust, are far more important than its membership numbers. As Nigeria’s political landscape continues to evolve, Ogenyi’s comments serve as a reminder that the country’s democratic process is shaped by a complex array of factors, including personal ambition, ideological commitment, and strategic calculation.
