Scores of members from the ruling Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and the Omoluabi Progressive Group led by former governor Rauf Aregbesola have officially defected to the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Osun State.
The swearing-in, held during a large reception at Ilupeju Multipurpose Hall in Ejigbo Local Government Area over the weekend, saw defectors welcomed into the APC in their hundreds.
Senator Mudashiru Husain, the Ejigbo APC leader and aspirant for the party’s 2026 governorship ticket, expressed joy at the increasing number of defectors. He described the move as a vote of confidence in APC’s platform, which he linked to President Bola Tinubu’s policies on social welfare, economic growth, and human capital development.
“The unprecedented number of people crossing over is a result of purposeful leadership,” Husain said. He also assured defectors of fairness and inclusivity, urging them to stay committed to the party’s progressive goals.
Husain added that APC will continue to mobilise grassroots supporters to strengthen the party’s position ahead of the 2026 governorship election. Speaking on his own ambition, he said he has the experience and grassroots support to bring APC to victory and replicate the “Renewed Hope” agenda of President Tinubu in Osun.
Local APC leaders, including Hon. Ayegbayo Gbolahan and Hon. Olayanju Kolapo, praised the new members and pledged to work diligently to consolidate the party’s gains.
Hon. Wole Olajire, representing the defected Omoluabi faction, said they left uncertainty in PDP for the stability and clarity offered by APC. Similarly, Hon. Kareem Mubarak, on behalf of the PDP defectors, cited poor internal democracy in their former party and welcomed APC’s commitment to socioeconomic development and good governance.
The mass defection marks a significant shift in the political landscape of Osun State as parties prepare for the next election cycle.
