The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Kogi Central Senatorial District inaugurated its campaign organisation for the 2027 elections on August 11, 2026, with a directive from Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan to prioritise direct voter engagement over large rallies. The event, held in Lokoja, Kogi state, was reported by The Punch and announced the appointment of Salami Etudaiye as Director-General and Abubakar Yahaya Karaku as Campaign Chairman.
Leadership Structure and Inauguration
The newly inaugurated campaign organisation includes Jacob Ogirima Anebe as Secretary, Ilyasu Zubair as Head of Operations, Isiaka Uhuanaye as Head of Technicals, and Jane Onoba as Head of Welfare. The structure was unveiled under the leadership of Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan, who represents Kogi Central in the National Assembly.
Addressing the team, Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan emphasised a grassroots approach, stating: "This campaign must be house-to-house and polling-unit-by-polling-unit. We must reach our people directly, listen to them, engage them and explain clearly why the PDP remains the best platform for the development and progress of our people." She also called for inclusivity, urging the team to welcome all supporters regardless of past political differences, saying: "We must open our doors for everyone who wants to join this moving train and this winning team. There is room for everyone who believes in the PDP and in the future we are building for Kogi Central."
Strategy and Mobilisation Plans
In his acceptance speech, Etudaiye described the role as a serious obligation, stating: "This is not a ceremonial title. This is a call to battle. I did not accept this assignment to manage a campaign of polite handshakes and quiet meetings. I accepted it to organise a movement." His plans include covering all local government areas in the district—Okene, Adavi, Ajaokuta, Okehi, and Ogori-Mangogo—with outreach extending to markets, campuses, and individual households. He made a particular appeal to women and young people, noting that the campaign would be incomplete without their involvement.
Campaign Chairman Karaku urged party members to prioritise collective goals over personal interests, saying: "Our message must be positive, our conduct must be responsible, and our mobilisation must be strategic. Elections are won by organisation, unity and the ability to connect with the people." He called on ward leaders, polling-unit coordinators, women leaders, and volunteers to function as a single unit, adding that no vote, ward, or polling unit was too small to matter in the district's four local government areas.
Background and Party Unity
Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan has previously called for dialogue among aggrieved PDP members following recent Supreme Court rulings, expressing confidence in the party's prospects ahead of the 2027 elections amid growing calls for unity. The inauguration marks a formal step in the PDP's preparations for the electoral contest in Kogi Central.
