Former Ekiti Governor Segun Oni Leaves SDP Joins APC

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Former Ekiti State Governor, Segun Oni, has formally exited the Social Democratic Party (SDP) to rejoin the All Progressives Congress (APC). The registration ceremony took place at his residence in Ifaki-Ekiti, marking a notable political development in the state.

Adesola Adedayo, the APC electronic registration coordinator for Ekiti State and Commissioner for Youth Development, confirmed Oni’s return on Monday. He described the move as a “major boost” for the ruling party’s efforts to expand its grassroots presence. According to Adedayo, Oni’s membership has already reinforced the party’s electronic enrolment exercise and is expected to enhance APC’s organisational structure ahead of upcoming elections.

Oni, who served as Ekiti State Governor from 2007 to 2010 under the PDP, had recently contested the 2022 governorship election under the SDP banner. His return to APC is seen as a strategic shift in Ekiti politics, especially with the 2026 governorship election and the 2027 general elections approaching.

Adedayo emphasized Oni’s long-standing influence at the local level, noting that his re-entry could improve APC’s appeal among grassroots supporters. “Segun Oni commands respect in communities across Ekiti. His presence within the APC strengthens the party’s credibility and electoral prospects,” he said.

The former governor’s registration follows shortly after Ekiti State Governor, Biodun Oyebanji, renewed his membership with the APC. Analysts suggest that these moves collectively signal a consolidation of the party’s dominance in the state, potentially reducing fragmentation among political factions.

Political Analysis: Oni’s reintegration into APC reflects a broader trend in Nigerian politics, where former opposition figures realign with dominant parties ahead of critical elections. His return not only reinforces APC’s grassroots network but also highlights the party’s strategy to consolidate power by absorbing influential political actors with established local support. The development may impact SDP’s relevance in Ekiti, while enhancing APC’s competitive advantage in both state and national contests.