Ekiti 2026: PDP Ex-Candidate Niyi Adeogun, Stalwarts Defect to APC, Back Governor Oyebanji

The political foundation of the opposition Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Ekiti State was profoundly shaken on Monday as its former House of Assembly candidate, Honourable Niyi Adeogun, and other influential party executives defected to the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC). This strategic cross-carpeting significantly boosts the APC’s momentum in the Moba Local Government Area as the state prepares for the 2026 governorship race. The defecting chieftains stated that their decision was influenced by the sweeping, radical economic reforms initiated by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu at the federal level and the corresponding inclusive, development-focused governance being implemented by Governor Biodun Oyebanji in Ekiti State.

Dependable NG reports that the defection ceremony, held at the Erinmope/Aaye Oja/Irare Ward in Moba Local Government Area, saw Adeogun and other PDP leaders warmly received by the APC structure. The former PDP chieftain specifically lauded the Oyebanji administration for its open-door and welfarist style of leadership, noting that it accommodates a wide range of citizens, including politicians from rival parties, students, women, artisans, and civil servants. This comprehensive approach to governance, he said, solidified their belief that the APC is the best platform for the state’s progress.

Adeogun passionately praised the Governor’s dedication to crucial rural development, pointing to road reconstruction projects in Moba Council, such as the Erinmope–Irare Road. These projects, he explained, are directly enhancing agricultural productivity and strengthening the state’s food security objectives. He further confirmed that his move was purely to “support the good work of Governor Oyebanji,” who he believes has effectively complemented President Tinubu’s efforts, leading to a visible economic upswing through the strategic deployment of the administration’s six-pillar agenda.

Highlighting the signs of tangible progress across the state, Adeogun cited numerous infrastructure developments—including the operational airport, the flyover in Ado-Ekiti, the Ado-Ekiti Ring Road, and ongoing construction on routes like Ado–Ikere Road, Ado–Iworoko–Ifaki Road, and Ikole–Ara–Isinbode Road. He affirmed that “Ekiti has become a massive construction site.” He pledged to dedicate his experience to mobilising robust support for Governor Oyebanji’s second-term bid, assuring the APC leadership that he would “work tirelessly to project the governor’s good image and ensure the APC secures a resounding victory in the 2026 election.” The APC State Chairman, Honourable Sola Elesin, represented by the ward chairman, Honourable Kolawole Olaoluwa, assured the new members of fair treatment, emphasising that loyalty and continued support for the Governor would guarantee their full enjoyment of the dividends of democracy.