Apa Local Government Area in Benue State has become the epicenter of a political shake-up as the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) suffers a massive wave of resignations and defections to the African Democratic Congress (ADC). The development has plunged the PDP into further crisis in the state, raising serious concerns about the party’s grip on grassroots politics in the region.
The latest wave of defections includes some of the most influential political figures in the local government. Among them is Hon. Owoicho Maxwell Oyi, a former chairman of Apa Local Government, known for his longstanding commitment to grassroots development and local governance. He was joined by Hon. Sharon Adokpe, a former councillor representing Igoro Ward, along with several other past councillors who once held sway under the PDP’s banner.
Also resigning en masse are numerous Ward Party Chairmen, coordinators, women leaders, and hundreds of rank-and-file party members who have now switched allegiance to the ADC. The scale of the defection has effectively weakened the PDP’s structure and operational base in Apa LGA.
In a press release at Ugbokpo, the administrative headquarters of Apa Local Government, the defectors accused the PDP of being plagued by unending internal crises, lack of transparency, imposition of candidates, and neglect of loyal party members. According to them, the PDP has lost its ideological compass and no longer reflects the values of democracy, inclusion, and people-centered leadership.
“The party we once served with passion has become a battlefield of factions and personal interests. There is no sense of direction or unity. The same recycled leadership continues to manipulate the system for their selfish agenda, leaving the rest of us in frustration,” said Hon. Oyi.
“We want to be part of a movement that reflects hope, inclusion, and progress. That is why we are aligning with the African Democratic Congress (ADC), a party that is ready to embrace fresh ideas and youthful participation,” added Hon. Adokpe.
One of the most symbolic shifts was the rebranding of the Apa PDP Youth Forum. Formerly a vibrant youth wing under the PDP structure, the forum—led by its coordinator, Comrade Paul Ochoche Benjamin—has officially severed ties with the PDP and transformed into the Apa ADC Youth Forum. The group declared its full loyalty to the ADC and vowed to work towards a new political narrative in Apa LGA.
Speaking on behalf of the youth wing, Comrade Benjamin stated:
“We are tired of being used and dumped. The PDP has continuously sidelined young people and shown no regard for our future. With the ADC, we have found a platform that listens to us and offers real inclusion.”
The mass defection is expected to have significant implications for the political dynamics of Benue State ahead of future elections. Political analysts suggest that with the caliber of defectors and their influence at the grassroots level, the PDP may struggle to regain its footing in Apa without urgent restructuring.
The ADC, on the other hand, is being positioned as a rising force, especially as it continues to attract disgruntled members from both PDP and APC. In recent months, the party has gained momentum in several local governments across the state, leveraging dissatisfaction with the status quo and offering an alternative vision for leadership.
While the PDP is yet to officially respond to the wave of defections, sources within the party hinted at emergency meetings being convened to address the situation and strategize on how to stem further losses.
Political observers agree that the mass resignation in Apa may be the beginning of a larger realignment across Benue South senatorial district, particularly as the 2027 general elections draw closer.
The winds of change are blowing across Apa Local Government, and the PDP appears to be at the losing end of a power shift. Whether the party can recover from this political earthquake remains to be seen, but for now, the ADC is basking in the glow of newfound strength and growing grassroots appeal.
