A significant political development has occurred in Benue State, Nigeria, as several defectors from other parties have officially joined the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Oju Local Government Area. The ceremony, which took place at the Local Government Pavilion in Oju, marked a notable shift in the council’s political landscape ahead of the 2027 general elections.
The event was attended by party leaders, elders, and supporters, and was presided over by Cyril Ikong Ijebe, the Majority Whip of the Benue State House of Assembly and Governor Alia’s representative. The Benue Commissioner of Information, Chief Obo Egbodo, and Steve Otumala Ogbu also supported the ceremony. The Oju LGA chairman of APC, Joseph Otumala, praised the turnout, describing the mass defection as a “watershed moment” that strengthens unity, trust, and renewed belief in purposeful development.
Chief Frank Alochu, who led the defectors, commended President Bola Tinubu’s reforms and Governor Alia’s achievements, particularly the ongoing reconstruction of Oju’s infrastructure. He emphasized the importance of gratitude reflecting in political commitment and urged party leaders to work together, stating that “a divided house gathers no harvest.” Prominent defectors included Dr. Isaac Egboja, Dr. Emmanuel Eru, and several senior technocrats.
The gathering was seen as evidence of the APC’s rising influence at the grassroots level, with support groups, youth bodies, market communities, women leaders, and political veterans in attendance. Stakeholders from the three political zones in the area praised Governor Alia for reconstructing the Achoho-Oju road, which they described as a long-awaited lifeline bringing relief to the entire Igede nation. They expressed their readiness to reward the governor’s administration with overwhelming electoral support, citing his performance as a key factor.
The absence of David Ogewu, the Member representing Oju/Obi Federal Constituency, was notable, with many attributing it to widening cracks between his faction and the governor’s structure. The development is expected to have significant implications for the 2027 elections, with the APC poised to consolidate its position in the region. As the political landscape continues to evolve, it remains to be seen how the opposition will respond to the APC’s growing influence in the area.