The political landscape of Ibadan South East Local Government received a major boost for the All Progressives Congress (APC) as prominent political actors and loyalists of Ambassador Taofeek Arapaja formally defected from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and other political platforms to the APC, declaring their support for all candidates of the party ahead of the 2027 general elections.
The high-powered gathering brought together former candidates, former political office holders, grassroots leaders and prominent members of the Arapaja political family, who unanimously resolved to join forces with the APC and contribute their political structures, experience and grassroots networks towards the success of the party.
Among those who formally identified with the new political direction were Hon. Shina Olapoju, former PDP Oyo South Senatorial candidate; Hon. Sunday Antony Babatunde, former PDP candidate for Ibadan South East Constituency II and former Council Secretary; Hon. Alade Sarafa, former PDP candidate for Ibadan South East/North East Federal Constituency; and Hon. Dolapo Alatise, former PDP candidate for Ibadan South East Constituency I.
The gathering also attracted several political stakeholders, including Hon. Sadipe Jimoh, former member of the Oyo State House of Assembly; Hon. Banjo Bigger, former PDP Local Government Vice Chairman; Hon. Taofeek Adesina, former Oyo South Youth Leader; and Hon. Mutairu Iyiola, former Special Adviser.
Other notable leaders present included Baba Rasaq Popoola, Baba Akinola Tajudeen, Hon. Kola Adekola Ribadu, Madam Ageshinkara, Mrs Omocho and Comrade Sunbo Olayiwola, leader of the Arapaja City Boy Movement, among others.
Speaking at the event, Hon. Shina Olapoju paid glowing tribute to Ambassador Taofeek Arapaja, describing him as a political leader whose influence is built on loyalty, relationships and the ability to mobilise people across different political interests.
Olapoju noted that the decision to align with the APC was a strategic political decision aimed at contributing to a broader political project and ensuring that the strength of the various political structures under the Arapaja family is deployed effectively ahead of 2027.
He further praised Arapaja for his leadership and political maturity, stressing that the former Deputy Governor has continued to command the loyalty of his followers because of his consistency and commitment to those who believe in his political vision.
In his remarks, Hon. Sunday Antony Babatunde declared himself ready to play an active role in the mobilisation ahead of the 2027 elections, describing himself as a “striker ready to strike.”
Babatunde said the objective was to work aggressively with other stakeholders to strengthen the APC across Ibadan South East and ensure victory for the party’s candidates.
He also announced a ₦500,000 donation on behalf of himself and his political leader, Ambassador Arapaja, towards supporting the activities of the movement.
Also speaking, Hon. Olayinka Banjo Bigger assured the party faithful that the newly aligned members would work closely with APC leaders and other stakeholders at the ward and local government levels.
He pledged aggressive grassroots mobilisation, emphasising the need for unity, coordination and teamwork in delivering all APC candidates during the forthcoming elections.
The APC Ibadan South East Local Government Chairman, Hon. Tajudeen Asanike, welcomed the new members into the party and assured them of an open and level playing field.
Asanike particularly described Ambassador Arapaja as a “core progressive,” while recalling his historical connection with the progressive political family. He noted that Arapaja’s political identity has deep roots in progressive politics and recalled how, after benefiting from a scholarship for his education, he returned and continued his political engagement within the progressive fold.
The APC chairman maintained that the arrival of Arapaja and his political family would further strengthen the party’s structure and expand its reach across Oyo State.
Similarly, Baba Muftau Gbayawu, commended Ambassador Arapaja for his leadership qualities and political influence. He welcomed the defectors and urged them to work collectively with the existing APC structure for the success of the party.
