FORMER SENATOR SIMEON AJIBOLA, EX-APC CHAIRMAN JAMES AYENI AND ABOUT 6,000 PARTY MEMBERS DEFECT TO PDP IN KWARA STATE

Former three-term senator Simeon Sule Ajibola and former Chairman of the APC Kwara South Elders Forum, Chief James Bamisaye Ayeni, have left the All Progressives Congress for the Peoples Democratic Party.

About 6,000 other APC members reportedly joined them in the move across the 10 wards of Ekiti Local Government Area, Kwara State, ahead of the 2027 elections.

The defection ceremony took place at an event ground opposite Amodu Filling Station in Osi town over the weekend.

Explaining his decision, Ayeni said the move followed extensive consultations with grassroots leaders who wanted a political platform that would promote inclusion, development and effective representation.

He accused the current administration of neglecting and marginalising people in Kwara South, arguing that remaining in the APC would not address their concerns.

“We can no longer fold our arms and watch the systematic marginalisation and neglect of our people,” he said.

Ayeni maintained that the defectors were seeking genuine development, integrity and stronger internal democracy.

The move adds to the political realignments taking place in Kwara as parties and their supporters prepare for the 2027 general elections.