PDP Members, Aregbesola’s Loyalists Defect to APC in Ejigbo

PDP Members, Aregbesola’s Loyalists Defect to APC in Ejigbo

Scores of members from the ruling Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and the Omoluabi Progressive Group, loyal to former Governor Rauf Aregbesola, have officially defected to the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Osun State.

The defection ceremony took place over the weekend at the Ilupeju Multipurpose Hall in Ejigbo Local Government Area, with hundreds of new members formally welcomed into the APC fold.

Ejigbo APC Apex Leader, Senator Mudashiru Husain, who received the defectors, commended their decision to join the party. He assured them of fairness, inclusion, and equal opportunity, adding that the APC continues to gain momentum despite being in opposition in the state.

Senator Husain, a leading aspirant for the APC’s 2026 governorship ticket, described the defection as a significant endorsement of the party’s principles. According to him, “The wave of defections from the PDP and particularly the Omoluabi Progressive Tendency is a testament to our purposeful and collective leadership. As the Apex Leader, I’m proud of what our team has achieved—and this is just the beginning.”

He noted that the APC is committed to attracting more grassroots mobilisers in preparation for the 2026 gubernatorial race and to consolidate support for President Bola Tinubu’s administration. He encouraged the new members to remain committed to the progressive ideals of the party.

On his ambition to govern Osun State, Senator Husain clarified that his aspiration is rooted in service, not desperation. “This is not a do-or-die affair,” he stated. “Our party has rules and strong internal structures. I have fulfilled all requirements—consultations, engagements, and groundwork. With my experience, loyalty, and grassroots network, I am confident I will fly the party’s flag in 2026 and lead APC to victory, correcting the missteps of Governor Ademola Adeleke’s administration and implementing the Renewed Hope agenda of President Tinubu in Osun.”

Other party stakeholders also expressed appreciation for the new members. Hon. Ayegbayo Gbolahan (Chairman, Ejigbo LGA), Hon. Olayanju Kolapo (Chairman, West LCDA), and Hon. Lateef Adegoke (APC Ejigbo LG Chairman) all commended the defectors for their bold step and pledged to work tirelessly for the growth of the party.

Representing the Omoluabi defectors, Hon. Wole Olajire said their return to the APC was a choice for stability and direction. “We’ve left uncertainty behind. Our loyalty is now fully with the APC, and we’re committed to mobilising for its success in 2026 and beyond,” he said.

Also speaking, leader of the PDP defectors, Hon. Kareem Mubarak, cited dissatisfaction with the PDP’s lack of internal democracy and good governance as the key reasons for their departure. He said the APC remains a party that prioritizes development, leadership, and the well-being of all citizens.