In a dramatic political homecoming, former Lagos PDP governorship candidate Abdul-Azeez Adediran (Jandor) has officially defected to the ruling APC, declaring his readiness to either contest the 2027 governorship or mobilize support for President Tinubu’s reelection.
The high-profile defection unfolded at the Lagos APC secretariat in Ikeja, where Jandor was received by state chairman Cornelius Ojelabi and the entire party executive. The 2023 PDP flagbearer cited three strategic reasons for his return:
- Opposition to Anti-Tinubu Coalitions: “When we see movements forming against our own, we must defend home first,” Jandor stated, invoking Yoruba proverb “Omo eni o ni se idi bebere…” (Charity begins at home).
- Political Weight Transfer: “We’re not returning empty-handed but with structures from 245 wards,” he boasted, referencing his 2023 performance where he secured 62,449 votes against Sanwo-Olu’s 762,134.
- Open Governorship Ambition: While stopping short of formal declaration, Jandor positioned himself as “ready if the party gives us the ticket,” signaling a potential showdown with incumbent loyalists.
APC Chairman Ojelabi framed the defection as a game-changer: “With this, PDP’s coffin in Lagos is nailed.” The party revealed all 57 LGA/LCDA chairmen were consulted about Jandor’s return, suggesting pre-emptive reconciliation with aggrieved factions.
Political analysts note this move:
• Weakens PDP’s already fragile Lagos structure
• Sets stage for intense APC primaries as Sanwo-Olu’s successor battle begins
• Demonstrates Tinubu’s enduring grip on Southwest politics
ADBN TV confirms Jandor’s camp has begun discreet consultations with 14 APC LGA chairmen ahead of possible gubernatorial run.
