The political contest in Kwara State has taken a fresh turn after two prominent All Progressives Congress (APC) figures and about 6,000 party members in Ekiti Local Government Area reportedly defected to the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).
Those named among the defectors are former three-term senator Simeon Sule Ajibola and Chief James Bamisaye Ayeni, the immediate past chairman of the APC Kwara South Elders Forum.
According to The Sun, the group comprises members drawn from all 10 wards in Ekiti Local Government Area, making the reported movement a significant talking point as political parties prepare for the 2027 elections.
Ayeni said the decision followed consultations among members who were concerned about what they described as marginalisation, neglect, inadequate development and a lack of internal democracy within the APC.
Ajibola, represented at the event by Tunde Fakayode, also announced his alignment with the PDP structure led by former Senate President Bukola Saraki. He reportedly pledged to deploy his political network to help the party ahead of the next election cycle.
The development could provide the PDP with an opportunity to strengthen its local structure, although the actual electoral impact will depend on how effectively the party organises and retains the support of the new entrants.
Defections are a familiar feature of Nigerian politics, particularly as elections approach. But while large numbers can make dramatic headlines, the real test comes when supporters are asked to turn out and vote.
For the APC, the reported departure raises questions about party unity and reconciliation efforts in the affected area. For the PDP, it presents an opportunity to build momentum and demonstrate that it can convert political realignments into electoral gains.
With 2027 approaching, Kwara’s political landscape could see further changes as parties compete for influence across the state.
