38
The Ogun State chapter of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) received a major boost on Wednesday, June 17, 2026, as former Senator and political figure, Prof. Iyabo Obasanjo, formally defected from the All Progressives Congress (APC) to the PDP.
The event, held in Ogun State, attracted a large crowd of party faithful, supporters, and political stakeholders. Among those present were the PDP governorship candidate, Senator Oladipupo Olatunde Adebutu; the party’s deputy governorship candidate, Alhaja Dr. Lateefat Oyeyemi Sowunmi-Kolapo; former deputy governorship candidate, Temilade Oluyemi Alagbe; Chief (Mrs.) Oluwole and several other prominent personalities.
Addressing the gathering, Prof. Obasanjo explained the reasons behind her political journey and eventual decision to join the PDP. She recalled that during her time in the APC, she enjoyed cordial relations with party leaders, including President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, whom she described as respectful whenever they met.
However, she said her experience within the APC later became disappointing, alleging that some individuals she had supported politically turned against her. While expressing her grievances, she was cautioned by party leaders to avoid making inflammatory remarks.
Speaking emotionally, Prof. Obasanjo condemned those she claimed wished her ill and expressed disappointment over what she described as a lack of loyalty from certain political associates she had helped in the past. She stressed the importance of gratitude and commitment in political relationships.
She described the PDP as a party that understands governance and values its members, pledging to work alongside Senator Adebutu to strengthen the party and improve the welfare of the people if given the opportunity to serve.
Prof. Obasanjo also highlighted the philanthropic legacies of their families, noting that her father, former President Olusegun Obasanjo, and Senator Adebutu’s father, renowned businessman Sir Kensington Adebutu, had positively impacted countless lives through leadership, empowerment, and job creation.
She concluded her remarks by reaffirming her roots in the Owu and Gbagura areas of Ogun State and expressed confidence in the PDP’s future in the state.
The atmosphere at the event was celebratory, with Senator Adebutu seen dancing to performances by popular band leader G Melody before addressing supporters. In his brief speech, he thanked attendees for their overwhelming turnout, noting that the crowd exceeded his expectations.
The PDP governorship candidate also hinted at plans to address issues relating to local government autonomy, promising that further details would be unveiled in due course.
The defection of Prof. Iyabo Obasanjo is expected to further reshape the political landscape in Ogun State ahead of future electoral contests.
-Mariam Bakare
What do you think about this?
Drop your opinion in the comment section.
FOLLOW US & Share this with someone who needs to see this.
