Sola Ebiseni, the Secretary-General of the pan-Yoruba socio-political organisation Afenifere, has resigned from his position. He also announced his defection from the Labour Party to the All Progressives Congress, APC. This development was made public during a meeting with Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa of Ondo State. Ebiseni, a chieftain of the Labour Party and the South-West Coordinator of the Presidential Campaign Council of Peter Obi in the 2023 general elections, disclosed his decision at the Government House in Akure.
Ebiseni declared his support for President Bola Tinubu’s second term in office. He stated that his declaration aligns with the views of most Nigerians and political gladiators. They believe the office of the President should still be in southern Nigeria to ensure the political stability of the federation. Ebiseni emphasized that politics is local and, as a leader of his Ilaje coastal people of Ondo State, the project he is joining President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for is life-changing.
The project Ebiseni referred to is significant for his people, particularly its proper coastal alignment in the state. Governor Aiyedatiwa welcomed Ebiseni and his supporters, assuring them of full integration into the APC campaign apparatus across all elections. The governor noted that Ebiseni’s extensive political experience would strengthen the campaign for President Tinubu’s re-election. Ebiseni previously served as chairman of the old Ilaje-Ese-Odo Local Government and as a commissioner in Ondo State.
Ebiseni's role as Secretary-General of Afenifere and his involvement in other socio-political organisations are seen as strategic assets to the party’s campaign efforts. Governor Aiyedatiwa acknowledged that Ebiseni’s experience and multiple terms as a commissioner would be valuable. Ebiseni's defection and support for Tinubu's second term have significant implications for the political landscape in Ondo State and Nigeria.
The meeting where Ebiseni announced his defection and support for Tinubu was attended by key stakeholders. Ebiseni's decision reflects a broader trend of political realignments in Nigeria. His move from the Labour Party to the APC is seen as a strategic shift. Ebiseni's support for Tinubu's second term is expected to influence political dynamics in the region.
Ebiseni's resignation from Afenifere and his defection to the APC have sparked reactions from various quarters. Supporters and critics alike are analyzing the implications of his move. Ebiseni's extensive experience in politics and governance is expected to play a significant role in the APC's campaign efforts. His defection is a notable development in the lead-up to future elections.
The development is also seen as a boost to President Tinubu's re-election bid. Ebiseni's support and experience are expected to contribute significantly to the APC's campaign strategy. The implications of Ebiseni's defection and support for Tinubu's second term will be closely monitored in the coming days.
Key points
- Ebiseni's defection from Labour Party to APC and support for President Tinubu's second term.
- Ebiseni cites the need for the President's office to remain in southern Nigeria for political stability.
- Governor Aiyedatiwa assures Ebiseni of full integration into APC campaign efforts.
