Former members of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Ondo State, Senator Ayo Akinyelure and Gbenga Edema, have given reasons for joining the African Democratic Congress (ADC) ahead of the 2027 general elections.
Speaking to journalists in Akure, Akinyelure, who is now the ADC candidate for Ondo Central Senatorial District, said his decision to quit the APC was driven by internal challenges within the party, including poor organisation, lack of recognition, and leadership disputes.
He argued that winning elections is less about financial strength and more about being on a stable and credible political platform. According to him, the APC had become fragmented, with multiple factions and competing interests undermining unity.
Akinyelure also claimed he was sidelined despite serving two terms in the Senate under the APC platform, adding that he felt politically unacknowledged within the party structure.
He stressed that recognition matters greatly in politics, warning that lack of it often leads to misrepresentation and opposition from within. He further described the APC as lacking discipline, saying internal hierarchy had broken down in several areas.
After reviewing the political environment and election timetable, he said he saw little coordination within the party, which influenced his decision to move to the ADC, a platform he described as more structured and orderly.
On his chances in the coming election, the former senator expressed confidence in his record, noting that his performance in office remains his strongest campaign point. He estimated his chances of victory at between 80 and 90 percent, provided the election is free and fair.
On his part, Edema, who is contesting for the Ilaje/Ese Odo Federal Constituency seat under the ADC, accused the APC of commercialising political appointments and abandoning merit in its reward system.
He argued that when positions are allegedly “bought” rather than earned, corruption becomes inevitable, as appointees focus on recovering money spent to secure offices.
Edema further alleged that some beneficiaries of federal appointments under the APC did not contribute meaningfully to the party’s growth but allegedly used financial influence to secure positions.
He also recalled his brief stint in the New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP) in 2024, saying he left after the party’s leadership congratulated Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa before the election process was concluded, which he said raised concerns about credibility.
According to him, the current structure of the ADC is more appealing due to its leadership quality and renewed direction.
He added that his political journey has included service in the House of Assembly, as Chairman of OSOPADEC, and at the NDDC, stressing that he remains committed to public service regardless of position.
Edema also said he has decided to respond to the wishes of his constituents by contesting for the House of Representatives seat, describing it as part of his continued service to the people.