“PDP Exodus: Top Ogun Opposition Leaders Dump Party for APC, Call PDP a ‘Sinking Ship’”

“PDP Exodus: Top Ogun Opposition Leaders Dump Party for APC, Call PDP a ‘Sinking Ship’”

In a major political shake-up in Ogun State, several key opposition figures have abandoned the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and the Allied People’s Movement (APM) to join the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC). Among them is former APM governorship candidate and PDP deputy governorship candidate, Abiodun Akinlade, who led the defection alongside other prominent figures.

The high-profile defectors include Sikirulai Ogundele, former PDP chairman in the state; Luqmon Atobatele, a sitting member of the Ogun House of Assembly; Idowu Olowofuja, a former lawmaker; Rotimi Rahaman, ex-chairman of the State Local Government Service Commission; and Dr. Mojeed Ekelojumati. Thousands of their supporters reportedly followed suit.

Governor Dapo Abiodun, while welcoming the defectors at a ceremony, assured them of full integration and equal treatment within the APC.

“I want to assure you that we will accord you the rights, privileges, and respect that indeed you deserve,” he said.

Governor Abiodun further took a swipe at the PDP, describing it as an “empty shell” and lauding the defectors for leaving a “sinking ship.”

“Today, our brothers have come back home, and we are happy and rejoicing in it… Hon. Akinlade said something: he said they didn’t just come here to declare today; they have gone to their various wards… they have joined from bottom-up, not from top-down because they are seasoned politicians,” the governor stated.

In his remarks, Hon. Akinlade expressed gratitude to Governor Abiodun and emphasized the strategic nature of their return to the APC.

“All I can say is to say thank you to our leader, to our amiable governor… We are not decamping; this is a movement. We have moved en masse back home… We are here to support the party… and commit our loyalty to you and the party,” he declared.

Former PDP chairman Sikirulai Ogundele echoed similar sentiments, citing visible development and good governance as key motivators for their switch.

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“What we are doing here today is a testimony; it is also history. I want to re-echo it: the most responsible PDP members of Ogun State from the 236 wards have moved en masse,” Ogundele said.

Hon. Atobatele, meanwhile, praised the governor’s inclusive leadership and support, even across party lines.

“If you don’t know Governor Dapo Abiodun very well, try and get to know him… he is one of a kind who will do such for an Honourable member from another party,” he said, referencing state-funded medical outreach efforts supported by the governor.

The defection signals a significant blow to the PDP in Ogun and could potentially reshape the political landscape ahead of future elections.