By Mercy Aikoye
A notable shift in Kogi State’s political landscape unfolded as the Kwankwasiyya movement made a strong presence in Ogbabede Ward, Dekina Local Government Area. On May 25th, 2025, more than 300 defectors from the All Progressives Congress (APC) and Social Democratic Party (SDP) formally aligned with the New Nigeria People’s Party (NNPP), bolstering the party’s growing influence in the region.
The defection was led by Hon. Husseini Umar Eniji, a prominent political figure and key driver of the Kwankwasiyya ideology in the locale. Hon. Eniji’s influence and reputation in Dekina Local Government Area likely played a significant role in convincing the members to switch parties.
The mass defection signals a growing momentum for the NNPP in Kogi State, further unsettling the strongholds of both the APC and SDP ahead of the 2027 general elections. The development has sparked concerns within the ranks of the affected parties, as their support base appears to be eroding rapidly.
The event, which drew large numbers of women and youth, saw many embracing the iconic red cap — a symbol of their new political allegiance. This display of solidarity underscores the appeal of the NNPP’s message and the Kwankwasiyya ideology in the region.
In his remarks, Eniji reassured the new members of the NNPP’s commitment to equity and fairness, values that form the foundation of the Kwankwasiyya ideology. He urged them to remain united and focused on building a stronger political future, emphasizing the importance of cohesion and collective effort.
The defection marks a strategic shift in the political landscape of Dekina and is expected to reverberate across Kogi State in the months leading up to 2027. As the NNPP continues to gain traction, it remains to be seen how the APC and SDP will respond to this challenge to their dominance.
The NNPP’s growth in Kogi State contrasts with turmoil within the party in other parts of the country, particularly in Kano State. Reports of mass defections have raised questions about the party’s stability and Senator Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso’s leadership.
The NNPP’s future prospects in Kogi State appear promising, with the party’s growth momentum expected to continue. However, Senator Kwankwaso faces challenges in maintaining stability within the party, given the recent wave of defections in other areas.
