Widespread rumours have continued to dominate political discussions across Kogi East over the alleged defection of Hon. Austin Usman Okai, the outspoken former House of Representatives candidate for Dekina/Bassa Federal Constituency under the People’s Democratic Party (PDP), to the All Progressives Congress (APC).
The speculation, which spread rapidly across social media and political circles in recent days, suggested that Hon. Okai had concluded plans to officially dump the PDP for the ruling APC. However, in a swift clarification, the fiery politician set the record straight, admitting ongoing political consultations but denying any formal agreement or finalized arrangement to join the APC.
In his words, Hon. Okai stated:
“Yes, I am talking to the APC leadership, but there is no any arrangement or agreement of me joining the party yet. When the time comes, I will go round Bassa and Dekina and communicate to my people. I am an active politician, not a commentator. I contested for the Federal House of Representatives before, so my decamping shouldn’t be a secret thing. Yes, we are talking, but no conclusion or any agreement or date fixed yet.”
The statement has sparked fresh conversations within Kogi’s political landscape, with analysts describing Okai’s response as a strategic positioning ahead of the 2027 general elections. His acknowledgment of “talks” with APC stalwarts, while maintaining loyalty to his base for now, has fueled further speculation about potential alignments and re-alignments across party lines in the state.
Observers believe Hon. Okai’s political influence and vocal presence, particularly in the opposition, make his next move critical to the balance of power in Kogi East. His possible defection could reshape the dynamics within both the PDP and APC in Dekina and Bassa axis, given his grassroots support and strong media presence.
As the political temperature in Kogi continues to rise, all eyes remain on Hon. Austin Usman Okai , a man known for his courage, outspokenness, and firm political convictions to see whether he will eventually take the bold step across party lines or continue to champion his ideology within the opposition.
