By Ibrahim Kegbegbe
A former senatorial aspirant in Ogun West, Hon. Abioro Damilare Athande (ADA), has officially defected from the New Nigeria People’s Party (NNPP) to the All Progressives Congress (APC), in a move he described as a strategic step toward national development and grassroots impact.
The defection, which took place on April 30, 2026, at the APC Agosasa Ward Secretariat in Ipokia Local Government Area of Ogun State, attracted party faithful, community leaders, and supporters who accompanied the politician into his new political fold.
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Athande, a native of Ago-Egun in Agosasa community and son of the late Pa Abioro Hodonu, said his decision to join the ruling party was driven by a desire to align with those in power to deliver meaningful development.
“My main reason for decamping to APC is to align with government leaders to contribute to the development of our beloved country, Nigeria,” he said. “Nigeria of today needs our joint support. No amount of criticism alone will bring the breakthrough we desire. We must work together to strengthen our economy, improve security, and reposition our education sector to compete globally.”
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The politician, who contested the Ogun West Senatorial seat under the NNPP in the 2023 general elections, noted that his experience in opposition politics shaped his understanding of the importance of party structure and governance access.
“As a former senatorial aspirant, I understand what it takes to operate within a party system. APC, as the ruling party, offers a functional structure that can help grow my capacity and aspiration as a young politician,” Athande explained. “This move will make my contributions more accessible to my people and relevant to those currently in leadership.”
Addressing residents of Agosasa Ward and the wider Ipokia Local Government, Athande reassured them of his unwavering commitment to public service and inclusive development.
“It is a great privilege to stand before my people today. I assure you of my service to humanity at all levels—ward, local government, state, and national,” he said. “Whenever I have the opportunity to serve, I will do so with humility, faithfulness, and total commitment.”
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Athande also used the occasion to commend the leadership style and developmental strides of Ogun State Governor Dapo Abiodun, describing him as “a people-oriented leader whose legacy will stand the test of time.”
Similarly, he praised President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for what he termed courageous and focused leadership.
“President Tinubu is a leader who listens and takes bold decisions. Nigeria needs such determination to move forward. I urge all Nigerians to support the government in building a better nation, because we have no other country to call our own,” he added.
Political observers say Athande’s defection could signal a gradual realignment of political forces in Ogun West, particularly among young politicians seeking relevance within the ruling party ahead of future elections.
With his entry into the APC, stakeholders in Ipokia and beyond will be watching closely to see how his political influence and grassroots appeal shape the dynamics of local politics in the months ahead.
View the video of the event below:
