Hanny Henry
Idi Hong, former Minister of Foreign Affairs and one-time Minister of State for Health, Idi Hong, has formally defected from the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) to the All Progressives Congress (APC), describing his former party as a “sinking ship.”
Hong announced his defection in his hometown of Hong, where he was accompanied by a large number of supporters and political associates. He said the decision followed extensive consultations with members of his political structure and loyalists across the state.
According to the former minister, remaining in the PDP was no longer in the best interest of his supporters or their shared political aspirations. “I cannot allow myself and my followers to be dragged down by a party that is clearly losing direction,” he said, citing what he described as declining cohesion and vision within the opposition party.
Hong maintained that his move was guided by a desire to advance the development of the state and the country at large. He expressed confidence that the APC offers a more viable platform to realize those goals, adding that he brings with him a wealth of experience and fresh ideas that he believes will strengthen the ruling party and contribute meaningfully to governance.
He further directed members of his political network to submit their resignations from the PDP and align fully with the APC, signaling a coordinated shift of his grassroots structure to the new party.
He assured his readiness and his followers to work for the party in the coming 2027 general elections towards victory.
Welcoming him into the party, the Chairman of the Association of Local Governments of Nigeria (ALGON), Idris Shuaibu, represented at the event by Hassan Babuto, assured Hong of equal rights and opportunities within the APC.
“In APC, we do not discriminate. By virtue of your registration, you are qualified to contest any position you wish,” Babuto said.
Also confirming the defection, Aliyu Ahmed, APC Chairman in Hong Local Government Area, pledged the party’s support for the former minister in whatever capacity he chooses to serve. He emphasized that the APC remains a peaceful and progressive platform committed to inclusive participation.
Babuto confirmed that Idi Hong has registered in his LGA under Shangui ward, in Hong Local Government Area.
Hong’s defection adds to the shifting political landscape in the state, as parties intensify realignments ahead of future political contests
