Alhaji Taofeek Arapaja, a former deputy governor of Oyo State and prominent figure in the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), is set to defect to the All Progressives Congress (APC) ahead of the 2027 general elections, according to reports from his camp. The move comes after a series of high-level meetings, including a recent audience with President Bola Tinubu in Abuja. Sources confirm that Arapaja met with key APC chieftains from Oyo State at his Abuja residence on Tuesday, signaling a formal shift in political allegiance.
The meeting, held two days after his encounter with the President, included top APC figures such as Barrister Sharafadeen Alli, the party’s gubernatorial candidate in Oyo State, Deputy Gubernatorial Candidate Mr. Adesoji Adedeji, and Senatorial candidate Hon. Aderemi Oseni. Also present were Arapaja’s loyalists and other influential personalities from the state. Discussions during the gathering centered on the planned defection, marking a significant political realignment in the state’s political landscape.
Arapaja has long been a close ally of Governor Seyi Makinde, having supported him since the inception of his administration in 2019. He previously held key leadership positions within the PDP, including National Vice Chairman (South West) and later Deputy National Chairman (South). He also served as National Secretary of the PDP faction loyal to Makinde, further cementing his influence within the party’s structure.
Born in Idi Arere, Ibadan, Arapaja has been active in Nigerian politics since the return to civilian rule in 1999. He began his political career as Chairman of Ibadan South East Local Government Area from 1999 to 2002. He then represented the Ibadan North East/Ibadan South East federal constituency in the National Assembly on the PDP platform between 2003 and 2007. His most prominent role came as Deputy Governor under the late Adebayo Alao-Akala from 2007 to 2011.
His decision to leave the PDP and join the APC is seen as a major blow to Makinde’s faction, especially given Arapaja’s deep-rooted connections and influence within the party. The defection could potentially reshape political dynamics in Oyo State, particularly as the 2027 elections approach. With his extensive experience and network, Arapaja’s move is expected to influence voter sentiment and party strategies in the region.
As the political landscape in Oyo State continues to evolve, Arapaja’s shift to APC signals a new chapter in his long-standing political journey, with implications for both parties and the broader electoral contest ahead.
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