Supporters of Rauf Aregbesola, former governor of Osun, under the banner of the Omoluabi Progressive Group, have severed ties with his political camp and joined the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Ejigbo local government area of the state.
The defection, which took place over the weekend at Ilupeju Multipurpose Hall in Ejigbo, also included scores of members from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), signaling a major political realignment ahead of the 2026 governorship election.
Receiving the defectors, Mudashiru Husain, a former senator and leader of APC in Ejigbo, described the development as a boost to the party’s strength at the grassroots.
Husain, who is eyeing the APC governorship ticket for 2026, said the mass defection was a result of deliberate, inclusive leadership by progressives in the area.
“The number of people joining us from the PDP and the Omoluabi group is proof that our style of leadership is resonating with the people,” he said.
He described the APC as the only party committed to real economic growth, social welfare, and human development.
Husain said the influx of new members would help position the APC for victory in the next election cycle, and urged the defectors to remain committed to the party’s progressive values.
On his ambition, Husain said his governorship bid is not a desperate move, stressing that he would follow the rules and traditions of the APC.
His words: “I am qualified in experience, loyalty, and grassroots appeal. If given the mandate, I will lead the APC to reclaim Osun and correct the policy failures of Governor Ademola Adeleke’s administration.”
In separate remarks, local APC leaders including Ayegbayo Gbolahan, chairman of Ejigbo LGA; Olayanju Kolapo of Ejigbo West LCDA; and Lateef Adegoke, chairman of the party in Ejigbo, pledged their full support to the new members and reaffirmed their commitment to party unity.
Speaking on behalf of the Omoluabi group, Wole Olajire said their return to the APC was based on a clear decision to rejoin the mainstream progressive fold and ensure electoral victory in 2026.
On his part, Kareem Mubarak, who led the PDP defectors, criticized the ruling party for what he called a breakdown of internal democracy and failure in governance.
He said the APC’s track record of purposeful leadership and development-focused policies made it a natural choice for those seeking real change.
