We abandoned APC for ADC, explain Akinyelure and Edema

Senator Ayo Akinyelure and Gbenga Edema, former members of the All Progressives Congress in Ondo State, have shed light on their decision to defect to the African Democratic Congress ahead of the 2027 elections.

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Akinyelure, who is now the ADC candidate for Ondo Central Senatorial District, cited disorganisation, lack of recognition, and internal leadership crisis within the APC as the primary reasons for his departure from the ruling party.

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According to Akinyelure, securing the right political platform is crucial for electoral victory, rather than relying solely on financial resources or influence, as he believes that winning an election hinges on having a solid foundation to contest from.

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Akinyelure expressed his disappointment, stating that despite his two terms in the Senate and electoral wins under the APC, he was allegedly denied recognition within the party structure, which he values greatly as a politician.

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He further stated that being unrecognised within the party creates numerous enemies, who will downplay his achievements and exaggerate his mistakes, highlighting the importance of a supportive party environment.

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Akinyelure also criticised the APC for lacking discipline and organisational structure, claiming that respect for hierarchy has broken down in certain areas of the state, with everyone acting as their own leader.

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This lack of organisation prompted Akinyelure to search for a party with discipline, ultimately finding it in the ADC, which he believes will provide a more stable foundation for his political career.

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Regarding his electoral prospects, Akinyelure expressed confidence in his track record and the work he accomplished during his time in the Senate, having already published reports of his performance in office.

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He believes that if the election is conducted fairly, his chances of winning are between 80 to 90 percent, leaving the ultimate outcome in the hands of a higher power.

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On the other hand, Edema, the ADC candidate for Ilaje/Ese Odo Federal Constituency, accused the APC of commercialising political appointments and abandoning merit-based reward systems, which he believes is a corrupt practice.

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Edema alleged that certain individuals within the APC structure have secured federal appointments through financial influence, rather than contributing to the party's growth, and are now focused on recovering their investments.

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Edema initially defected to the New Nigeria Peoples Party in 2024 but lost confidence in the party after its leadership congratulated Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa before the election was concluded, which raised concerns about the party's integrity.

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This experience led Edema to join the ADC, which he believes has a credible and committed leadership, and he is attracted to the party's current structure, which differs from its previous formation.

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With a background of serving in various capacities, including the House of Assembly, as Chairman of OSOPADEC, and at the NDDC, Edema has put aside his ego and is now contesting for the House of Representatives, as requested by his constituents.