A significant number of members from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Ondo State have shifted their allegiance to the All Progressives Congress (APC). This mass defection occurred ahead of the 2027 general elections and was led by Mr. Bosun Arebuwa, a former PDP governorship aspirant. Arebuwa contested the PDP's ticket in the 2024 governorship election but has now joined the APC, bringing with him supporters from across the state.
The defection ceremony took place at the International Culture and Event Centre in Akure, the state capital, where leaders of the APC, including Chief Olusola Oke, SAN, welcomed the new members. Arebuwa stated that the decision to defect was driven by a desire to support President Bola Tinubu's re-election bid, citing the administration's performance. He mentioned that over 3,000 units and 203 wards across the 18 local government areas of the state are represented among the defectors.
Arebuwa emphasized that the defectors are committed to supporting President Tinubu and ensuring the APC's success in the 2027 elections. He highlighted that his first assignment in the APC would be to mobilize support for Tinubu's presidential bid. Arebuwa expressed confidence in the APC's ability to win the election and stated that the defectors are prepared to contribute to the party's success.
The defectors' decision to join the APC was attributed to their admiration for President Tinubu's leadership. Arebuwa praised Tinubu's performance, noting that the country has not had a president like him before. He expressed a willingness to utilize his resources to support Tinubu's re-election bid. The mass defection is seen as a significant boost to the APC in Ondo State.
Chief Olusola Oke, SAN, welcomed the defectors to the APC and urged them to work towards strengthening the party's structures at the grassroots level. He encouraged them to return to their respective wards and local government areas to mobilize support for the party. Oke expressed confidence that the defectors' addition would add value to the APC's progress in the state.
The APC leaders acknowledged Arebuwa's experience and capacity, which they believe will be beneficial to the party. They emphasized the importance of working together to ensure the APC's success in future elections. The mass defection is expected to have a significant impact on the party's fortunes in Ondo State.
The development has sparked mixed reactions within the PDP, with some members expressing shock and disappointment at the loss of key figures. The APC, on the other hand, is celebrating the new additions, which are expected to bolster its chances in the 2027 elections. The implications of this mass defection will be closely watched in the coming months.
Key points
- The defectors, led by Mr. Bosun Arebuwa, cited a desire to support President Bola Tinubu's re-election bid as the reason for their defection.
- The mass defection is seen as a significant boost to the APC in Ondo State, ahead of the 2027 general elections.
- The APC leaders have welcomed the defectors and urged them to work towards strengthening the party's structures at the grassroots level.
