Media mogul and publisher of Ovation Magazine, Dele Momodu, has accused the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) of using coercion and manipulation to lure opposition members into defecting to their party.

Speaking during an interview on Arise Television, Momodu claimed that the APC has been “cajoling and coercing” politicians from rival parties to join its ranks, describing the wave of defections as both alarming and unnatural.

His comments follow the recent defection of high-profile members of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP)—including Governor Peter Mbah of Enugu State and Governor Douye Diri of Bayelsa State—to the APC.

Expressing concern over the trend, Momodu said the pattern of political behaviour in the country seems almost “bewitching.”

“The APC is cajoling and coercing the opposition to join them,” he said. “I’m beginning to feel that Nigerians have been ‘jazzed’ by some politicians because the behaviour and misdemeanour do not appear normal to me.”

Momodu questioned the motives of politicians, especially those already in powerful positions, who abandon their parties midterm.

“People who have no business whatsoever—imagine a second-term governor—where are you running to? Where are you running away from?” he asked.

The veteran journalist went on to describe the situation as a mix of opportunism and self-interest, saying many politicians are driven by a desire for “jollification” and proximity to power.

“For me, it’s a combination of so many things. Some just want jollification, so they go where the power is. You know, the Federal Government of Nigeria is more powerful than even the American president,” he added.

Momodu’s remarks reflect growing frustration among opposition supporters who see the recent defections as a threat to political balance and democratic accountability in Nigeria.