The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Ekiti State has suffered another major setback, as one of its prominent figures and former House of Assembly candidate, Hon. Niyi Adeogun, led a group of party leaders and members to defect to the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC).

The defection, which occurred on Monday, October 20, 2025, at Erinmope/Aaye Oja/Irare Ward in Moba Local Government Area, significantly weakened the PDP’s grassroots structure in the region.

In explaining their decision, Adeogun cited the “radical economic reforms” initiated by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and the inclusive governance approach of Governor Biodun Oyebanji at the state level.

While being received by APC leaders, Adeogun commended Governor Oyebanji for his “open-door policy” and his “commitment to the welfare of all citizens, regardless of political affiliation.”

He further emphasized the governor’s focus on rural development, highlighting projects such as the reconstruction of the Erinmope-Irare Road and other infrastructure efforts that have boosted agriculture and food production in the state.

“Everywhere you go, there are signs of progress. Ekiti has become a massive construction site,” Adeogun stated.

He clarified that his defection was not for personal gain but to support the governor’s work. He pledged to help strengthen the APC at the grassroots level and ensure the governor’s re-election in 2026.

Adeogun was joined in defection by the PDP Ward Chairman, Youth Leader, and other key party executives, whom he described as “the lifeblood of the opposition” in the area.

In response, APC State Chairman Hon. Sola Elesin, who was represented by the Ward Chairman Hon. Kolawole Olaoluwa, welcomed the new members and assured them of equal treatment within the party.

Elesin emphasized that the Oyebanji administration had fostered a political environment free from discrimination and encouraged the new members to remain loyal to the party and the governor, whom he described as a man of integrity.

“You have every right to aspire to any position of your choice. As the 2026 election approaches, work with others to ensure the governor’s re-election so that we can continue to enjoy the dividends of democracy,” Elesin added.