PDP, APM Heavyweights Defect to APC in Ogun State

A major realignment in Ogun State’s political landscape unfolded yesterday as key leaders from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and the Allied People’s Movement (APM), including a former PDP chairman, lawmakers, and grassroots mobilizers, formally defected to the All Progressives Congress (APC).

Among the high-profile defectors was Hon. Abiodun Akinlade, the former APM governorship candidate and PDP deputy governorship candidate in Ogun State. He was joined by Hon. Sikirulai Ogundele, immediate past chairman of the PDP in the state; Hon. Luqmon Atobatele, who represents Abeokuta South State Constituency 1; Hon. Idowu Olowofuja, a former House of Assembly member; Hon. Rotimi Rahaman, former chairman of the Ogun State Local Government Service Commission; Dr. Mojeed Ekelojumati, and thousands of their followers.

Welcoming the new party members at a ceremony attended by party faithful from all 236 wards as well as the state working committee, Governor Dapo Abiodun stated, “We will accord you the rights, privileges, and respect that you deserve.” He depicted the PDP as an “empty shell” plagued by nationwide defections and said he felt honored that Akinlade and other notable figures had joined the APC to drive progressive change in the state.

The governor highlighted the depth of the movement, noting the caliber of the defectors, including a former governorship candidate, current and former lawmakers, and local government leaders. “Our brothers have come back home, and we are rejoicing. These politicians joined from the grassroots up and not just on a symbolic top-down basis,” Abiodun said.

In his remarks, Hon. Akinlade stressed that the decision to join the APC was carefully considered and involved collective consultation across their constituencies. “We have moved en masse back home; we have left nobody behind,” he stated, adding that the returning politicians were motivated by Abiodun’s gracious and inclusive leadership.

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Hon. Sikirulai Ogundele, the immediate past PDP chairman, declared that the decision was made after deep reflection on the visible development in both Ogun State under Abiodun and across Nigeria under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu. He described the move as historic, adding: “The most responsible PDP members from all 236 wards have moved en masse into APC.”

Hon. Luqmon Atobatele also praised the governor’s leadership and support for all constituencies, regardless of political alignment. He cited examples of community-focused service, such as organizing free surgeries for his constituents and state-backed logistics for international medical missions to Ogun State.

The influx is expected to both boost the APC’s strength and redraw political calculations as the state approaches future elections.