A Political Homecoming: Mass Defection Bolsters APC Ranks in Ogun State
In a significant political development, a wave of defections from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and the Allied People’s Movement (APM) has reshaped the political landscape of Ogun State, Nigeria. Led by prominent figures including Abiodun Akinlade, former governorship candidate and 2023 deputy governorship candidate of the PDP, and Dr. Sikirulai Ogundele, immediate past state chairman of the PDP, the group formally joined the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) amidst much fanfare. The defectors were welcomed by Governor Dapo Abiodun, who assured them of seamless integration and equal opportunities within the party. This influx of political heavyweights, along with a substantial number of supporters, signifies a considerable boost to the APC’s strength in the state.
The defectors comprised a diverse group of political actors, including Luqmon Atobatele, a sitting member of the Ogun State House of Assembly representing Abeokuta South State Constituency I; Idowu Olowofuja, a former member of the House of Assembly; Rotimi Rahaman, former chairman of the Ogun State Local Government Service Commission; and Dr. Mojeed Ekelojumati. The collective move underscores a growing trend of political realignment within the state, with the APC solidifying its position as the dominant political force. Governor Abiodun characterized the PDP as an “empty shell” experiencing widespread defections nationwide, suggesting the new entrants had wisely abandoned a “sinking ship.”
Governor Abiodun’s welcoming address emphasized inclusivity and collaboration. He pledged to accord the new members all the rights and privileges due to them, urging existing APC members to embrace and work closely with the incoming group. The governor highlighted the significance of the defection, noting the diverse political backgrounds and experience of the individuals involved, ranging from former governorship candidates and House of Representatives members to local government officials and serving legislators. He pointedly referenced Akinlade’s statement that the move was a grassroots effort, with the defectors having declared their intentions at their respective wards before the formal announcement, demonstrating a bottom-up approach to party affiliation.
Akinlade, in his remarks, framed the defection not as a mere change of party affiliation, but as a significant political movement. He expressed gratitude to Governor Abiodun for his graciousness and emphasized their commitment to contributing to the development of Ogun State and the nation. He reiterated their loyalty to the governor, the state APC leadership, and the national party structure, pledging to work collaboratively to achieve shared goals. This collective pledge of support signifies a potential shift in the political dynamics within the APC, as the influx of new members could lead to internal realignments and power shifts.
Dr. Sikirulai Ogundele, the former PDP state chairman, echoed Akinlade’s sentiments, asserting that their decision to join the APC was driven by a careful evaluation of Governor Abiodun’s achievements at the state level and President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s performance nationally. He portrayed the defection as a strategic move by “responsible” PDP members across all 236 wards in the state, indicating a widespread disillusionment with the PDP’s direction and a growing confidence in the APC’s vision for Ogun State and Nigeria. This mass movement suggests a potential weakening of the PDP’s organizational structure and influence within the state.
Adding a personal touch to the proceedings, Luqmon Atobatele, the serving House of Assembly member, commended Governor Abiodun’s inclusive leadership style, which he claimed extended support even to opposition members. He recounted how the governor facilitated 88 free surgeries for his constituents and provided logistical support for a visiting medical team from the United States. Atobatele’s testimonial served as a powerful endorsement of the governor’s approach, highlighting his willingness to transcend partisan divides for the benefit of the people. This emphasis on cross-party cooperation further reinforces the image of the APC as a unifying force within the state.
