The political landscape in Ondo State witnessed a significant shift on Monday, August 11, 2025, as Hon. Dayo Awude, former Deputy Governorship candidate of the Labour Party (LP), formally joined the All Progressives Congress (APC) alongside his supporters and leaders from various political parties.
The defection, held at the Akure City Hall, saw members from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Social Democratic Party (SDP), and African Democratic Congress (ADC) under the platform of the Sunshine Grassroots Network officially welcomed into the ruling APC by Governor Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa.
Governor Aiyedatiwa lauded the move as a “wise decision,” stressing that in Ondo State, “there is no room for coalition, it is one APC.” He emphasised that the party’s priority remains retaining power in 2027, noting that APC’s record of good governance under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu at the national level and his own administration at the state level are clear indicators of the party’s capability.
“The whole of Ondo State is for President Tinubu come 2027, and the decision of these defectors to join us today is a strong step towards that goal,” the Governor stated.
In his remarks, Awude cited his alignment with the progressive ideals and developmental vision of Governor Aiyedatiwa and President Tinubu as the driving force behind his defection.
“I have joined the APC to add value, and I assure Mr. Governor that he will see it. I am here for progress, to support President Bola Tinubu and the administration of Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa,” Awude affirmed.
Another notable defector, Dele Ogunbameru, former Secretary of the SDP, said he felt “at home” in the APC and pledged to contribute his experience to strengthen the party.
Ondo State APC Chairman, Engr. Ade Adetimehin, commended Awude’s political capacity, urging all new members to prove their strength at the grassroots.
“Any politician who cannot deliver his unit and ward is not a politician,” Adetimehin cautioned, formally handing over the defectors to Governor Aiyedatiwa as the state party leader.
Dignitaries at the event included Secretary to the State Government, Dr. Taiwo Fasoranti; Chief of Staff, Prince Segun Omojuwa; House of Representatives member for Akure North/Akure South, Hon. Derin Adesida; Akure South Local Government Chairman, Hon. Gbenga Fasua; members of the State Executive Council; and APC leaders from across the state.
This mass defection is expected to boost APC’s grassroots presence ahead of the 2027 elections, further consolidating its political dominance in Ondo State.
