Ogun State Governor, Dapo Abiodun, has welcomed former ward leaders of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and African Democratic Congress (ADC) into the All Progressives Congress (APC), describing their decision as a significant boost to the ruling party ahead of the 2027 general elections.
Abiodun received the defectors in Ogun State and urged existing APC members to accept them and work together for the development of the state.
The governor said the movement of the opposition politicians into the APC reflected what he described as growing confidence in the ruling party and its leadership.
According to Abiodun, the opposition has lost its way and is struggling to provide a convincing alternative to the APC. He maintained that the new entrants had made a decision based on their assessment of the political situation and the direction of governance in the state.
The governor called on APC members across the state’s wards to welcome the new members and ensure that their integration into the party is smooth.
He emphasised the importance of unity within the APC, particularly as political activities ahead of the 2027 elections continue to gather momentum.
The defection is another indication of the ongoing realignment of political forces across Nigeria ahead of the next general elections. Political parties have intensified efforts to strengthen their grassroots structures, attract influential politicians and expand their membership.
Abiodun’s administration has continued to position the APC as a strong political force in Ogun State, while opposition parties have been working to maintain their structures and challenge the ruling party.
The governor’s latest remarks also come amid a broader wave of defections and political movements across the country, as politicians assess their options ahead of 2027.
The former PDP and ADC ward leaders are expected to contribute their experience and grassroots networks to the APC as the party prepares for future political contests.
Their movement could also have implications for the strength of opposition parties at the ward level, where political mobilisation and voter engagement are particularly important during elections.
Abiodun urged the new members to see their entry into the APC as an opportunity to contribute to the party rather than simply a change of political platform.
He also called on existing party members to work with the defectors and avoid divisions that could weaken the party’s structure.
The governor’s comments are likely to generate reactions from opposition parties, particularly the PDP and ADC, as both parties continue efforts to strengthen their political structures ahead of the 2027 elections.
The development further highlights the increasingly competitive nature of Nigeria’s political landscape, with parties seeking to consolidate their support bases ahead of the next presidential, governorship and legislative elections.
For the APC in Ogun State, the arrival of the former opposition ward leaders is expected to strengthen its grassroots organisation and provide additional political manpower ahead of future campaigns.
As preparations for 2027 continue, more political realignments and defections are expected across the country, with politicians and parties positioning themselves for what is expected to be a highly competitive election.
