The former governorship candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Lagos State Abdul-Azeez Adediran, widely known as Jandor, has officially defected to the All Progressives Congress (APC). The announcement was made on Monday during a press conference at his office in Ikeja, Lagos, weeks after his resignation from the PDP.
Jandor explained that his decision to leave the PDP stemmed from internal crises and the lack of discipline within the party, particularly during the 2023 general elections. He expressed his frustration with the PDP’s failure to address the issue of anti-party activities and political sabotage.
“Our story in the PDP was one of working alongside perennial political saboteurs. But we have resolved to focus on our future, valuing it more than our past,” Jandor said. “After extensive consultations with my family, political associates, elder statesmen, supporters, and well-meaning Lagosians who share our vision for a more prosperous Lagos, I am pleased to announce that we have decided to join a political party that prioritizes winning elections and working towards the welfare and development of our people.”
Jandor’s decision to return to the APC follows discussions with political figures across various parties, including the Social Democratic Party (SDP), African Democratic Congress (ADC), and the Young Progressive Party (YPP).
Addressing concerns about his previous exit from the APC, Jandor likened his experience to a popular Yoruba adage, “If a woman has not tried two husbands, she probably would not know which one is better.” He clarified that despite his earlier departure from the APC, he now sees the ruling party as the better alternative.
“In APC, we have a leader who, even if you disagree with his choices, is always determined to win for the party and its members. In contrast, in Lagos PDP, we had a leader who worked against his own party at every election cycle, dashing the hopes of many party members,” Jandor explained. “We have chosen the better alternative for the progress of Lagos.”
Jandor emphasized that his return to the APC was a decision made with the utmost consideration, reflecting his dedication to Lagos’ development and the unity of progressive forces to achieve the collective aspirations of the people.
He also acknowledged the key role played by President Bola Tinubu’s Chief of Staff, Femi Gbajabiamila, and Tinubu’s son, Seyi Tinubu, in persuading him to rejoin the APC.
“I want to extend my sincere gratitude to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for recognizing my contributions to democracy and nation-building. I must also thank Rt. Honourable Femi Gbajabiamila, who has been persistent in encouraging me to return ‘home’ and support Mr. President. When I resigned from the PDP, Seyi Tinubu immediately reached out to me, urging me to come back,” Jandor said.
He assured his supporters that his decision was made in the best interest of Lagos, calling on them to join him in this new political chapter. “We remain committed to the values of service, integrity, and progress. Together, we will continue to advocate for a better Lagos for the present and future generations,” he concluded.
