Former ANRP Gubernatorial Candidate Joins APC in Oyo State

Former gubernatorial candidate Olalekan Ayorinde has officially joined the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Oyo State, signaling a notable shift in the state’s political landscape as the 2027 general elections approach. Ayorinde, who previously contested the 2019 Oyo State governorship election under the Abundant Nigeria Renewal Party (ANRP), was welcomed into the APC at the party secretariat in Oke Ado, Ibadan, on Wednesday. The reception was led by Moses Adeyemo, the APC chairman in Oyo State, representing the party’s leadership. The event saw the attendance of several APC leaders, including Azeez Asimolowo Elewure, the chairman of the APC in Ibadan North East Local Government, and Chief Morufu Ogboriefon, the Ward 2 chairman, along with other prominent party members and chieftains from across the state.

Hailing from the Ita Baale area of Ibadan North East, Ayorinde clarified that his decision to join the APC was not driven by personal political ambitions or aspirations for any elective office. Instead, he expressed a genuine desire to contribute meaningfully to the development of both Ibadan and Oyo State as a whole. His defection comes at a time when political alignments are evolving in preparation for the upcoming electoral cycle. Ayorinde’s entry into the APC is perceived as a significant enhancement to the party’s grassroots presence in Ibadan North East, a crucial local government area within the state.

Political analysts suggest that Ayorinde’s background and local influence could bolster the APC’s outreach efforts, particularly in urban communities throughout Ibadan. His transition from a minor party to one of Nigeria’s leading political parties highlights the fluid nature of political affiliations in the country. The APC leadership in Oyo State has welcomed Ayorinde’s decision, viewing it as a positive development for the party’s growth and cohesion. Party officials have expressed optimism that his experience and commitment to public service will strengthen the APC’s ability to tackle local challenges and promote developmental initiatives in the state. As the political atmosphere heats up ahead of the 2027 elections, Ayorinde’s move is expected to attract close attention from political observers and stakeholders across Nigeria’s southwest region.