The political landscape in Ogun State shifted on Wednesday as key figures from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) officially joined the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC). Governor Dapo Abiodun welcomed the defectors at a special event, where he described the PDP as an “empty shell” and a “sinking ship.”
Among those who crossed over to the APC were Adekunle Akinlade, the PDP’s 2023 deputy governorship candidate; Sikirulai Ogundele, former PDP state chairman; and Luqmon Atobatele, a sitting member of the Ogun State House of Assembly representing Abeokuta South Constituency 1.
Others include former state lawmaker Idowu Olowofuja, ex-chairman of the Ogun Local Government Service Commission, Rotimi Rahaman, as well as Mojeed Ekelojumati and thousands of supporters.
Governor Abiodun praised the defectors for what he called a “homecoming” and promised them full integration and respect within the APC. He mocked the state of the PDP, saying it had become a group of “internally displaced politicians” who have tried to settle in other parties without success.
“Today, our brothers have come back home. PDP nationwide has become an empty shell. They tried SDP, ADC—nowhere could accommodate them. But here in the APC, we welcome them with open arms,” the governor said.
Akinlade, popularly known as “Triple A,” called the move a “mass movement,” not just a defection. He said the group had carefully made the decision and came united, trusting the leadership of Governor Abiodun and the APC at the national level.
Sikirulai Ogundele added that their choice was driven by the visible development in Ogun under Governor Abiodun and the direction President Bola Tinubu is giving the country.
“What we are doing here is not just a move, it is history. The most responsible PDP members in Ogun, from all 236 wards, have moved together,” Ogundele said.
The defection marks a major blow to the PDP in Ogun State and is seen as a significant boost for the APC ahead of future elections.
