Former Ondo Deputy Governor Agboola Ajayi Defects from PDP to APC

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Agboola Ajayi, former Deputy Governor of Ondo State and the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) governorship candidate in the last election, has officially rejoined the All Progressives Congress (APC).

Ajayi, who previously served under the late Governor Rotimi Akeredolu, returned to the ruling party on Tuesday at Apoi Ward 2, Kiribo, in Ese Odo Local Government Area of the state.

Speaking at the event, he explained that his decision was motivated by a desire to contribute meaningfully to the APC and to support President Bola Tinubu’s re-election bid in the 2027 general elections.

He said the move was also influenced by his commitment to advancing Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa’s EASE Agenda, alongside President Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda.

According to Ajayi, his return reaffirmed his loyalty and full membership of the APC, providing him with the platform to actively participate in the party’s activities and growth.

Drawing parallels from political developments across the world, Ajayi noted that personal differences must sometimes be set aside in favour of national progress, citing examples of political reconciliation in other democracies.

“In politics, disagreements, campaigns, propaganda, and even blackmail may occur, but the ultimate focus should always be the Nigeria project. We must unite to add value to our political system,” he said.

Referencing Kenya’s political experience, he added, “We all recall what transpired between Raila Odinga and President Uhuru Kenyatta. Despite intense rivalry and public exchanges, they eventually came together for the good of their country. That is precisely what I have done today.”

Ajayi acknowledged that political rivalry shaped the last election cycle but stressed that reconciliation was essential for development and stability.

“Myself and Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa have held discussions. We campaigned vigorously, and during such times, propaganda and blackmail are often unavoidable. However, the broader national interest is far greater than individual ambitions,” he stated.

“This is about the Nigeria project. We must work together to contribute positively to the system.”

He also praised President Tinubu’s economic reforms, describing them as bold and transformative, and said they had laid a solid foundation for Nigeria’s long-term economic growth.

“He has established policies that have created a strong and resilient economic framework. No future administration will find it easy to reverse these reforms,” Ajayi said.

“Any government that comes after President Tinubu will build on these policies, which provide a solid base for a robust and vibrant economy.”

On security and governance, Ajayi noted that while no nation is completely free from crime, Nigeria has witnessed noticeable improvements compared to previous years.

“Every country faces security challenges, but you can clearly see the progress made compared to three or four years ago,” he added.

He urged residents of Ondo State to support Governor Aiyedatiwa, encouraging collective efforts to ensure the delivery of more developmental projects and democratic dividends.

“Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa is giving his best. We should all rally around him so that we can benefit from good governance and contribute our own quota,” he said.

Ajayi’s Return Strengthens APC – Aiyedatiwa

Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa described Ajayi’s defection as a significant boost to the APC in Ondo State.

Represented by his Special Adviser on Legislative and Party Affairs, Babatunde Kolawole, the governor said Ajayi’s political experience, grassroots influence, and strategic relevance would further solidify the party’s structure ahead of future electoral contests.

He noted that the development signaled increasing confidence in the APC’s leadership at both state and federal levels and would promote unity, mobilisation, and effective implementation of party programmes.

Earlier, the Ondo State APC Chairman, Ade Adetimehin, hailed Ajayi as a seasoned grassroots politician with extensive knowledge of the state.

“Agboola Ajayi is a political force who understands every part of Ondo State. His return makes our party stronger, more united, and better positioned for victory,” Adetimehin said.

He added that with unity and synergy, the APC was well-placed to secure decisive victories for President Tinubu and other party candidates in the 2027 general elections.