In a major political shift in Oyo State, former Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) candidate Hammed Ademola and Accord aspirant Adedapo Ojo have officially defected to the All Progressives Congress (APC), bringing along over 3,000 supporters ahead of the 2027 general elections. The move marks a significant realignment in the state’s political landscape, as both candidates cited strategic reasons for leaving their previous parties. Ademola, popularly known as Lucky, emphasized that his decision followed careful analysis of the political environment in Oyo State, concluding that only the APC offers a viable platform for electoral success.
“I did my due diligence and realised that any ticket outside the APC is a mere tissue paper that cannot take a candidate anywhere in 2027,” Ademola stated during the defection ceremony. He added that the group had gathered in large numbers to formally join the APC, pledging full commitment to the party’s goals and Nigeria’s progress. His remarks underscored a growing trend of political figures seeking stronger alliances ahead of the upcoming elections.
Ojo, who was vying for the Accord party’s nomination in the same Ibadan North-East State Constituency 2, echoed similar sentiments. He described his time with Accord as unproductive, noting that efforts to establish it as a credible alternative in the state had not yielded results. “We wasted our time, energy and resources on an unproductive exercise. We later realised it wasn’t worth it, so we decided to pitch our tent with the progressive party,” Ojo explained. His statement reflects broader frustrations within smaller political parties struggling to gain traction against dominant forces.
The defectors were warmly received by Chief Moses Alake-Adeyemo, Chairman of the APC in Oyo State, who assured them of equal opportunities and fair representation within the party structure. He urged the new members to actively contribute to strengthening the APC’s presence and securing victory in the 2027 elections. The event also saw the participation of Senator Sharafadeen Alli, the APC’s governorship candidate, who welcomed the influx of new members with enthusiasm.
“Alli expressed optimism, saying, ‘It is a thing of joy that reasonable individuals are abandoning their parties to join the APC at a time like this.’ He further highlighted that the hope for Oyo State is growing brighter each day and stressed the importance of preparation for the May 2027 elections. The APC deputy governorship candidate, Adesoji Adedeji, and senatorial candidate Aderemi Oseni were also present, reinforcing the party’s unity and readiness for the upcoming electoral battle.
This mass defection signals a potential turning point in Oyo State politics, with the APC consolidating support from key figures and grassroots networks. As the 2027 elections draw closer, the APC’s ability to integrate new members and maintain momentum will be crucial in shaping the state’s political future.
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