In the wake of the Supreme Court ruling affirming Usman Ododo’s controversial election as Kogi State Governor, the political landscape is shifting dramatically. Ododo, representing the ruling All Progressive Congress (APC), has initiated a strategic outreach to leaders of the Social Democratic Party (SDP), particularly focusing on Kogi East. This move aims to consolidate his power and secure support from influential figures who previously backed Muritala Ajaka’s gubernatorial ambitions, OBSERVERSTIMES Report.
Reports indicate that Ododo’s team is actively engaging with key SDP leaders, many of whom belong to the business class and had shown allegiance to Ajaka during the election. Despite the controversies surrounding Ododo’s election victory, some SDP leaders are now contemplating negotiations with the ruling party. The allure of promises, including tickets for upcoming elections and government contracts, has sparked interest among these leaders.
Ododo’s strategy seems to hinge on the belief that to make significant inroads in Kogi East—a region crucial for his political survival—he may need to sacrifice some of his own party members currently holding National Assembly tickets. This calculated risk underscores the precarious nature of his administration’s standing and the need to build a broader coalition.
While some SDP leaders are optimistic about their party’s potential to secure National Assembly seats, especially in Kogi East, there is a palpable sense of disillusionment regarding the party’s internal management, particularly concerning local council election nominations. Many former members who left the APC in solidarity with Ajaka are now in a state of limbo, waiting to see how the political dynamics unfold post-Supreme Court decision.
Eyes on Muritala Ajaka
As the political chess game continues, Muritala Ajaka remains a pivotal figure. Despite pressure from influential figures in the APC to return to the party that he feels betrayed him, Ajaka is closely monitoring the sentiments of his grassroots supporters. Many of them are steadfast in their rejection of the APC, viewing it as a party that has failed them.
Ajaka’s supporters have expressed that any decision to return to the APC could isolate him, as they are unwilling to revert to a party they believe has lost its credibility. Meanwhile, Ododo’s team is reportedly applying significant pressure on Ajaka’s loyalists, dangling the prospect of Senate and House of Representatives tickets as incentives for defection.
The current holders of APC tickets for the National Assembly are reportedly facing uncertainty regarding their nominations for the 2027 elections, which has created a sense of urgency among some of Ajaka’s former allies. As the political landscape continues to evolve, the coming weeks will be critical in determining whether Ododo can successfully consolidate his power or if Ajaka’s influence can withstand the pressures of political realignment in Kogi State.