By Nelson Ogbu
The African Democratic Congress (ADC), Ado Local Government Chapter, on Friday intensified its political outreach as it formally courted a prominent All Progressives Congress (APC) stalwart, Chief John Ochoga, in Apa-Agila, Ado LGA of Benue State.
The move came shortly after a reception hosted by Ochoga at his country home following the burial of renowned journalist, Chief Dan Agbese.
The well-attended gathering drew political figures across party lines, including members of the APC, Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), and the ADC, underscoring Ochoga’s enduring influence across the political spectrum.
Seizing the moment after the reception, ADC leaders in the area, led by Chief Patrick Ogbu and Dr. Stephen Onmeje, led a delegation to personally appreciate Ochoga for his show of unity and hospitality.
In their remarks, the ADC leaders urged the elder statesman to consider joining their party, which they described as a fast-rising political force both nationally and within Benue South.
They praised Ochoga’s long-standing political relevance, recalling his emergence as a commissioner at the youthful age of 23, and described him as a “life wire” of politics in Ado Local Government and Benue State at large.
According to them, many of the current political actors in the zone had either directly or indirectly drawn mentorship and inspiration from him.
They further expressed confidence that his defection to the ADC would significantly boost the party’s fortunes in Zone C, noting that his political structure and experience would translate into “high electoral mileage” for the party.
Responding, Ochoga acknowledged the strategic importance of Ado Local Government and Benue South (Zone C) in shaping the political direction of the state.
He recounted how the zone played decisive roles in past governorship elections, particularly in 2003 and 2011.
According to him, in 2003, former Governor George Akume was trailing based on results from Zones A and B before the decisive votes from Zone C turned the tide in his favour. A similar pattern, he said, was witnessed during the 2011 election that produced former Governor Gabriel Suswam.
Ochoga warned against underestimating the political relevance of the Idoma people, stressing that any attempt to sideline them could attract serious political consequences.
While admitting that the current situation within the APC may not be entirely favourable to his people, he stated that he has not yet considered leaving the party.
