Politics is often described as a game of loyalty, strategy, and timing. But in Kogi politics, another question is beginning to echo louder across the corridors of power: Who’s next to be betrayed?
The name at the center of this conversation is Sanni Ogembe.
In politics, relationships matter. Mentorship matters. Political structures are built on trust, sacrifice, and alliances. But what happens when every political bridge that helped a man rise somehow ends up burned?
Back in the buildup to the 2023 elections, many political observers in Kogi watched closely as Natasha Akpoti became one of the strongest voices and power brokers within the PDP structure in Kogi Central. Natasha had built a movement that resonated with young people, women, and frustrated voters across the district. Her influence within the PDP was undeniable, especially after her transition from SDP into the PDP ahead of the elections.
Within that political atmosphere, Sanni Ogembe emerged as the PDP House of Representatives flag bearer. Many believed his emergence was not accidental but heavily backed by Natasha’s political structure and influence. At the time, supporters saw it as teamwork — a united front against the ruling APC dominance.
But politics moves quickly.
Not long after, cracks reportedly began to appear in that alliance. Those who once saw Ogembe as a beneficiary of Natasha’s political goodwill started accusing him of distancing himself from the same structure that helped elevate him. In Nigerian politics, this is not new. But what made the whispers louder was the growing perception that he had mastered one political habit: climbing through alliances, then abandoning them when the next opportunity appeared.
Then came another twist.
Last year, the sitting House of Representatives member, popularly known as TAO, reportedly played a role in bringing Ogembe into the APC fold. Again, this was seen as another political opening handed to him by an established figure within the system. In politics, such moves are rarely done without expectations of loyalty or long-term partnership.
Yet before long, reports and political conversations began suggesting that Ogembe himself was eyeing the very same House of Representatives seat occupied by the man who allegedly helped bring him into the APC.
For many observers, the pattern looked familiar.
First Natasha.
Then TAO.
Now, the biggest question emerging in political circles is about the current governor of Kogi State.
There are increasing talks that Ogembe is once again enjoying political favor and support from the state’s highest political structure. If true, then the governor may be the latest powerful figure investing political trust in him.
But history has a stubborn way of following politicians around.
And this is where the public concern begins.
If a politician repeatedly falls out with the very people who helped create his opportunities, should new political benefactors be worried? If every alliance ends with accusations of betrayal, should supporters simply dismiss it as normal political ambition? Or should it be treated as a warning sign?
No politician rises alone. Every successful political career is built on shoulders mentors, allies, structures, loyal supporters, and strategic relationships. But leadership also demands consistency, gratitude, and trustworthiness.
The real issue is no longer whether Sanni Ogembe is ambitious. Every politician is ambitious.
The issue is whether ambition without loyalty eventually becomes dangerous.
Because in politics, betrayal may win temporary positions, but it also builds permanent suspicion.
And today, across Kogi political circles, one uncomfortable question keeps returning:
Who will Sanni betray next!!!
By Mr Umar Abdullahi
