Former Deputy Governor of Ondo State and the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) governorship candidate in the last election, Agboola Ajayi, has officially returned to the All Progressives Congress (APC).
Ajayi, who previously served under the late Governor Rotimi Akeredolu, rejoined the ruling party on Tuesday at Apoi Ward 2, Kiribo, in Ese Odo Local Government Area of Ondo State.
Addressing party members at the event, Ajayi said his decision was motivated by a desire to contribute meaningfully to the APC and to support the re-election bid of President Bola Tinubu in the 2027 general election. He added that his return was also aimed at backing Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa’s EASE Agenda alongside Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda.
According to Ajayi, rejoining the APC reaffirmed his full membership of the party and would enable him to participate actively in its activities.
Drawing lessons from global politics, he noted that personal differences should not outweigh national interest, citing political reconciliations in other democracies.
“In politics, disagreements, campaigns, propaganda and even blackmail are inevitable. But the bigger picture is the Nigeria project. We must unite to add value to the system,” he said.
Referencing Kenya’s political landscape, Ajayi added that former rivals Raila Odinga and ex-President Uhuru Kenyatta eventually reconciled in the interest of their country, describing his own return to the APC as a similar move.
He acknowledged that rivalry defined the last election cycle but stressed that reconciliation was necessary for progress.
“Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa and I have spoken. During campaigns, blackmail and propaganda are common, but the bigger picture is beyond all of us. This is about Nigeria, and how we can contribute to strengthening the system,” he said.
Ajayi also praised President Tinubu’s economic reforms, describing them as bold steps that have laid a strong foundation for the nation’s future.
“The foundation has been laid. No future president will be able to reverse these policies because they provide a strong and vibrant economic base,” he stated.
On security and governance, Ajayi noted that while no country is crime-free, Nigeria has recorded noticeable improvements compared to previous years.
He urged residents of Ondo State to support Governor Aiyedatiwa, saying such backing would enable the administration to deliver more dividends of democracy.
Reacting to Ajayi’s return, Governor Aiyedatiwa described the development as a major boost for the APC in the state. Represented by his Special Adviser on Legislative and Party Affairs, Babatunde Kolawole, the governor said Ajayi’s experience, political influence and grassroots connection would strengthen the party ahead of future elections.
The Ondo State APC Chairman, Ade Adetimehin, also welcomed Ajayi back, describing him as a seasoned grassroots politician with deep knowledge of the state.
“Agboola Ajayi is a political bulldozer who knows every corner of Ondo State. His return makes our party stronger and more united,” Adetimehin said.
He added that with unity and cooperation, the APC is well-positioned to secure significant victories for President Tinubu and other party candidates in the 2027 elections.