Ogun State Governor, Prince Dapo Abiodun, has formally welcomed a group of former ward leaders from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and African Democratic Congress (ADC) into the All Progressives Congress (APC), marking a significant political shift in the Ogun East Senatorial District. The event took place on Wednesday evening in Abeokuta, where the governor addressed the defectors and reiterated his administration’s commitment to development and accountability. The new APC members hailed from Ijebu North, Ijebu East, Ijebu North-East, and Odogbolu Local Government Areas, regions that have seen increased political realignment under the ruling party.
In his remarks, Governor Abiodun emphasized the APC’s dominance in Ogun State politics, questioning why individuals continue to remain in opposition parties despite repeated electoral defeats. He pointed out that the PDP lost both the 2019 and 2023 elections, even in areas like Ijebu North and Waterside, where prominent figures such as Hon. Adegbesan once held high office. “What are you still doing there?” he asked, urging them to consider the party’s record of progress over rhetoric and empty promises.
The governor highlighted his administration’s focus on completing projects abandoned by previous governments, stressing that these initiatives were funded with public money and must not be left unfinished. He noted that his government had completed key infrastructure projects such as the hospital and Buhari Estate, which were initiated but stalled under earlier administrations. “A building is not a home,” he said, adding that true achievement comes only when projects are fully executed and functional.
Abiodun encouraged the newly inducted APC members to become active advocates for the party and its Renewed Hope Agenda. He assured them that a formal rally would soon be organized to celebrate their transition, and promised they would begin to enjoy the benefits of democratic governance under the APC. He also guaranteed that no member would be marginalized or put to shame for choosing to join the ruling party.
State APC Chairman, Chief Yemi Sanusi, welcomed the defectors, describing their decision as wise and timely. He underscored the party’s openness and capacity to provide opportunities for all members to contribute meaningfully to Ogun State’s growth. Former PDP Ward 2 Chairman in Ijebu North, Hon. Adebowale Emmanuel, and other leaders echoed this sentiment, stating it was time to leave the opposition behind and embrace the development agenda led by Governor Abiodun.
Chief Michael Bakare, Secretary of the ADC in Ijebu East, thanked the governor for empowering the people of Imobi with a traditional ruler, calling their move to APC a step away from stagnation toward progress. Hon. Erinle Opeoluwa Samuel, ADC Chairman in Ijebu North-East, commended the visible improvements across the state and admitted their decision to join the APC should have come sooner.
This influx of former opposition leaders into the APC signals a growing confidence in the state’s developmental trajectory under Abiodun’s leadership. As more grassroots politicians align with the ruling party, the APC’s grip on Ogun State politics appears stronger than ever, setting the stage for continued consolidation ahead of future elections.
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