Five members of the National Assembly elected on the platform of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) have formally defected to the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Osun State, signaling a major political realignment ahead of upcoming elections.
According to the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN), the defectors include Sen. Francis Fadahunsi (Osun East), Sen. Olubiyi Fadeyi (Osun Central), Omirin Olusanya (Ijesa South Federal Constituency), Wole Oke (Ijesa North Federal Constituency), and Taofeek Ajilesoro (Ife Central Federal Constituency).
The lawmakers were officially received by party leaders, members, and supporters at a gathering in Osogbo.
Oyetola: ‘In APC, There Are No Strangers’
Speaking at the event, the Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Gboyega Oyetola, declared that the APC remains an inclusive political family and that the addition of the defectors would reinforce the party’s mission to reclaim Osun State.
“We are gathered not just to receive our new members, but to affirm a shared conviction—that the sure path to prosperity, stability, and visionary leadership lies in the All Progressives Congress,” Oyetola said.
“In the APC, there are no strangers—we are one united family. Your arrival strengthens our resolve to reclaim Osun and restore dignity to governance.”
He further stated that the accomplishments of President Bola Tinubu since assuming office have created a solid base for Nigeria’s transformation.
“That is why we proudly and confidently endorse President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for a second term in 2027—to consolidate these gains and secure lasting prosperity,” he added.
Oyetola urged party faithful to intensify preparations for the August 8 governorship election in Osun, emphasizing the need for grassroots mobilization and unity.
“At home, the 2026 governorship election is fast approaching. Our mission is clear: reclaim Osun and return it to serious, people-focused governance,” he said.
He outlined the APC’s vision for a state where public institutions function effectively, infrastructure is sustainable, youth and small businesses are supported, and governance is transparent and accountable.
“But victory will come only through unity, hard work, and grassroots mobilisation. So I charge you: return to your communities, wards and polling units,” Oyetola said, encouraging members to rally support across the state.
APC Leadership Assures Equal Opportunities
The Osun APC Chairman, Tajudeen Lawal, said the defection of the PDP lawmakers would significantly boost the party’s strength and enhance its chances in both the August 8 governorship election and the 2027 presidential poll.
He assured members that the party would not discriminate in offering political opportunities, regardless of when individuals joined, in line with APC’s established tradition.
Similarly, the APC governorship candidate in Osun, Bola Oyebamiji, called for solidarity among party stakeholders as preparations intensify for the 2026 and 2027 elections.
“Dear party leaders, party members and supporters, as we look toward the 2026 and 2027 elections, unity within our ranks is non-negotiable,” Oyebamiji said.
“The progressive family in Osun must stand as one. Our leaders, youths, men and women, and all grassroots mobilisers must continue to work together with a singular objective to return our state to a path of growth, accountability, and inclusive development.”
He described the lawmakers’ decision to switch allegiance as a strong indication that the party’s momentum is building ahead of the crucial electoral contests.
What you should know
Five National Assembly members elected under the PDP have defected to the APC in Osun State, a move seen as strengthening the ruling party ahead of the August 8 governorship election and the 2027 presidential race.
They were welcomed by Minister Gboyega Oyetola and other APC leaders, who expressed confidence that the development would boost the party’s electoral prospects.
Party officials, including Tajudeen Lawal and governorship candidate Bola Oyebamiji, emphasized unity and grassroots mobilisation as key to reclaiming Osun and supporting President Bola Tinubu’s re-election bid.
