2027: Alhaji Mohammed Abdullahi ‘Elephant’ — The Relentless Political Warrior of Kogi East

In this exclusive interview, Alhaji Mohammed Abdullahi “Elephant” speaks on his long political journey, his unwavering loyalty to the PDP, his admiration for Nyesom Wike, and his current ambition to represent Kogi East in the Senate.

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Excerpts:

Alhaji Mohammed Abdullahi, many people describe you as one of the most consistent politicians in Kogi East. How would you describe your political journey?

My journey has been one of resilience, conviction, and sacrifice. I began my political career in 2003 when I contested for the House of Representatives under the PDP. That election was not just about winning; it was about announcing my arrival and showing that I had the courage to challenge the status quo.

At that time, I faced the son of a sitting governor, Ibrahim Idris. It was not an easy battle, but I stood my ground. That experience taught me early that politics is not for the faint-hearted—it is for those who are prepared to endure.

Over the years, I have contested at different levels, moved across political platforms when necessary, but my core ideology has remained the same: service to the people.

You mentioned moving across parties. Critics sometimes use that against politicians. What are your views?

Movement in politics is sometimes strategic, not ideological. When I left PDP at a point for ACN, it was about creating an alternative platform to advance my vision. I became the flag bearer of ACN because people believed in my capacity.

Later, I contested in the 2015 governorship race where I stood strong against powerful figures, including the late Abubakar Audu. I emerged ahead of two former senators in the primaries. That was not luck—that was credibility and grassroots acceptance.

I also took a bold step by single-handedly sponsoring the Accord Party structure in Kogi State and becoming its governorship candidate. That move showed my independence and ability to build from scratch.

Then I aligned with the NNPP under Rabiu Kwankwaso to contest for Senate. Every step I took was strategic, but one thing has remained constant—my identity as a PDP man at heart.

Now you are back in PDP under what many call the Wike-led structure. Why?

Because leadership matters. Direction matters. And courage matters.

I have immense admiration for Nyesom Wike. He represents a kind of politics that is bold, fearless, and results-driven. Wike is not a fair-weather politician. He stands firm even when it is inconvenient.

That is the kind of leadership PDP needs today—not timid leadership, but assertive, strategic, and people-oriented leadership.

What specifically do you admire about Wike’s politics?

Consistency and courage. Wike is a man who says what he means and stands by it. In Nigerian politics, that is rare. Many people speak from both sides of their mouth, but Wike is direct.

Secondly, he delivers. Whether you like him or not, you cannot deny his record. He has shown that governance is about action, not just promises.

Thirdly, he understands political structure. He builds, he sustains, and he protects his base. That is why many of us see him as the de facto national leader of the PDP today.

You have been described as a “dogged politician.” What does that mean to you?

It means I don’t give up. Politics is not a straight road. There are setbacks, betrayals, disappointments. But I have remained standing through all of it.

I have contested multiple elections. I have built structures from nothing. I have faced powerful opponents. Yet, I am still here. Doggedness means persistence. It means believing in your vision even when others doubt you.

Let’s talk about your Senate ambition. Why Kogi East, and why now?

Kogi East deserves experienced representation. This is not a time for experimentation. This is a time for tested leadership—someone who understands the terrain, the people, and the system. I have paid my dues politically. I have built relationships across party lines. I have the experience to navigate the complexities of governance at the national level. Now is the time to bring that experience to the Senate for the benefit of our people.

What is your view on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and his government of national unity?

President Tinubu has demonstrated political wisdom in building alliances across party lines. Bringing in people like Wike into the broader governance structure shows that he understands the importance of inclusiveness.

Politics is about collaboration. It is about bringing the best minds together, regardless of party differences, to move the country forward. That is what I call pragmatic leadership.

Some critics say this kind of alignment weakens party ideology. What is your take?

That argument is theoretical, not practical. Nigeria’s reality requires cooperation. If you isolate yourself in rigid ideology without results, you fail the people. What matters is delivery—security, infrastructure, economic growth. If collaboration helps achieve that, then it is justified.

You mentioned earlier that some politicians are driven by bitterness. Are you referring to anyone specifically?

I will speak in general terms, but it is clear that some political actors become bitter when things don’t go their way. Take Nasir El-Rufai, for example. When expectations are not met, some people resort to criticism instead of introspection. Leadership requires maturity. You don’t always get what you want, but how you respond defines you.

Do you believe El-Rufai’s position is driven by personal disappointment?

It appears so to many observers. When someone expects a certain outcome and it doesn’t happen, there is a tendency to react emotionally. But politics should not be driven by personal grievances. It should be about national interest.

Back to your personal story—what has kept you going all these years?

The people.

Every time I travel across Kogi East, I see the hope in the eyes of our people. They believe in me. They trust me. That trust is a responsibility. It is what keeps me going. Also, I believe strongly in destiny. I believe that my journey is not accidental. Every step, every challenge, has prepared me for a greater responsibility.

You have contested against some of the biggest names in Kogi politics. What sets you apart?

Accessibility and connection.

I am not a distant politician. I am among the people. I understand their struggles because I share in them.
Also, I have a track record of building from scratch. I don’t rely on godfathers. I rely on the people. That independence makes a difference.

What would be your priority if elected as Senator?

Development of Kogi East.

That includes infrastructure, education, youth empowerment, and economic opportunities. We have enormous potential, but we need the right representation to unlock it. I will focus on practical solutions, not just rhetoric.

Finally, why should the people of Kogi East trust you with this mandate?

Because I have proven myself over time. I have been consistent. I have been resilient. I have never abandoned the struggle. I am not coming with empty promises. I am coming with experience, vision, and commitment. And most importantly, I am coming with a heart that truly belongs to the people.

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