The Peoples’ Democratic Party (PDP) in Oyo State, on Tuesday suffered a significant blow as a human rights lawyer, Chief Niyi Aborisade, alongside top leaders and supporters from all 33 local government areas, formally defected to the African Democratic Congress (ADC). The development is seen as a major setback for the PDP and a boost for ADC as political realignments ahead of the 2027 general elections begin to take shape.Aborisade, a prominent figure in Oyo State politics, attributed the defection to unresolved internal crises within PDP, describing the party as increasingly incapable of presenting a credible candidate for upcoming elections. Speaking at an official gathering in Ibadan, he said persistent factional disputes, lack of internal democracy, and the refusal of key actors to listen to reason had weakened the party’s structure and credibility.
“I have laboured for PDP, spent personal resources, and worked tirelessly for the party, yet internal conflicts remain unresolved. Democracy itself is under threat. ADC offers a platform where everyone can contest freely, and internal elections will be conducted fairly. This is not about me alone; it is about providing a platform where all aspirants can exercise their fundamental rights”, Aborisade said.
The 2027 governorship aspirant in Oyo State disclosed that the defection includes supporters from all local government areas of the state, many of whom are party leaders. According to him, the decision reflects a collective assessment that PDP can no longer provide a viable path forward. “They have read the signs of the times and understand that PDP cannot continue on its current trajectory,” he said.
He also criticised the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), pointing to rising hunger, fuel scarcity, and unprecedented increases in the cost of food as evidence of the party’s failure to meet Nigerians’ expectations. “APC has lost public confidence. Nigerians are looking toward ADC as a credible alternative capable of delivering positive change,” Aborisade said.
Welcoming Aborisade and his supporters, Alhaji Yinka Olona, Oyo State Chairman of ADC, described the defections as part of a broader trend of political realignments across the country. “We are extremely excited to welcome Barrister Niyi Aborisade into ADC. He is not the first, and he will not be the last,” Olona said. “ADC is the viable opposition that can provide Nigerians with a credible alternative to the current political establishment.”
Aborisade stressed that his move to ADC was guided by a commitment to fairness, accountability, and positive change. “If I am not chosen as a candidate, I am ready to work with whoever emerges. ADC guarantees a level playing field, unlike PDP, where candidates are often imposed,” he said.
The development underscores growing dissatisfaction with PDP’s internal management and APC’s governance at the federal level. Analysts say that ADC is emerging as a formidable force in Oyo State and nationwide, presenting itself as a platform for progressive politics, internal democracy, and credible leadership as Nigeria approaches the 2027 elections.
