Former PDP Deputy Treasurer, Fortune, defects to ADC, criticizes party leadership in Kogi Central
By: Goodluck E. Adubazi, Abuja.
The internal crisis within the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) appears far from over, as embattled Kogi Central Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan’s staunch supporter, Hon. Fortune Omuya, has dumped the party.
Omuya Fortune, the former Deputy Treasurer of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) in Kogi State, officially announced his defection to the African Democratic Congress (ADC) on Saturday at the National Political Consultative Group (North), held at Abuja Continental Hotels, citing internal crises and the personalization of the PDP structure in Kogi Central.
Speaking to Standard Times Nigeria, Fortune dismissed reports attempting to obscure the reasons for his suspension from the PDP, describing the process as a “kangaroo arrangement” lacking transparency and integrity.
“Let’s be sincere, things are not quite okay with the PDP. It’s no longer the People’s Democratic Party, at least not in Kogi Central. It has become a ‘Personality Democratic Party,’ hijacked by a few individuals for personal gain,” he stated.
Fortune, a known supporter of Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, said it came as no surprise to him that the senator aligned with the ADC, describing the party as “open to everyone.”
“I would gladly be part of the entourage receiving Senator Natasha into the ADC. It’s a party for all, and she is very welcome,” he said.
Emphasizing his belief in inclusive politics, Fortune argued that political engagement should be based on shared values rather than selfish interests. “Politics should not be about what you alone can gain. It should be about collective values and how those values serve the people.”
In a notable move, the former PDP chieftain declared that he would not contest any political office in 2027, in deference to the zoning and rotational agreement in Okehi Local Government Area. “The zoning system must be respected. I have no interest in contesting in 2027. I stand by the agreement for equity and fairness.”
Fortune also commended the performance of Kogi State Governor, Ahmed Usman Ododo, stating that the ADC was not in competition with the All Progressives Congress (APC), but rather focused on promoting good governance.
“As it stands, Governor Ododo is doing very well. I have no reason to criticize him. If someone is doing well, and I cannot praise them for political reasons, I’d rather remain silent than criticize wrongly,” he said.
He expressed optimism that the era of violent or manipulated elections in Kogi State was over, saying the current leadership under Governor Ododo appears committed to peaceful and fair electoral processes.
Formally declaring his defection to the ADC, Omuya called on fellow Kogites to support the new political movement. “ADC has come to stay. We are not here to fight or undermine the APC. We acknowledge their efforts and want to work together for the betterment of Kogi State. Join us if you can, but if you can’t, don’t be our enemy,” he concluded.
