Dr. Abdul-Azeez Adediran, popularly known as Jandor, has officially returned to the All Progressives Congress after resigning from the Peoples Democratic Party. The former Lagos State governorship candidate made the announcement at a press conference in Ikeja, Lagos, where he cited deep-seated internal crises, lack of party discipline, and unchecked anti-party activities as the main reasons for his departure. His exit from the PDP had been widely speculated following months of discontent within the opposition party, and his return to the ruling APC signals a major political realignment in Lagos State.
Jandor expressed disappointment over his experience in the PDP, describing it as a party where betrayal and internal sabotage were the norm. He revealed that he had hoped to build a formidable opposition in Lagos, but the party’s leadership consistently undermined efforts to strengthen its structure. According to him, a political party exists to win elections and form a government that will work for the people, but in the PDP, key figures intentionally worked against their own party’s interests. He described his journey in the party as frustrating and a lesson in political reality.
He stated that after extensive consultations with family, political associates, elder statesmen, and supporters, he decided to return to the APC, a party that prioritizes electoral victory and strategic governance. He admitted that his initial decision to leave the APC was based on certain grievances, but his experience in the PDP made him realize the difference between the two parties. Using a Yoruba proverb, he likened his political journey to a woman who has been married to two husbands and can now tell which is better. He emphasized that while the APC has a leader who is committed to winning elections and securing opportunities for party members, the PDP in Lagos is controlled by individuals who intentionally sabotage their own party’s chances at the polls.
Jandor acknowledged the efforts of key figures in persuading him to return to the ruling party. He specifically mentioned President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, whom he described as a strategic political leader who values loyalty and party strength. He also expressed gratitude to Tinubu’s Chief of Staff, Femi Gbajabiamila, who had reportedly been working behind the scenes for over a year to convince him to return to the APC. Additionally, he revealed that the president’s son, Seyi Tinubu, played a significant role in reaching out to him, urging him to come back and contribute to the party’s administration.
He assured his supporters that his return to the APC was in the best interest of Lagos and the people who believe in his political ideology. He emphasized that the decision was not made lightly but was driven by the need to align with a political platform that prioritizes development, governance, and electoral success. He urged his supporters and well-wishers to join him in this new chapter, adding that his commitment to the progress of Lagos State remains unwavering. He stated that the challenges facing Lagos and Nigeria as a whole require unity among progressive-minded individuals and that working within the APC provides the best opportunity to achieve meaningful change.
Jandor dismissed concerns that his return to the APC was motivated by personal political ambition, insisting that it was a strategic move to ensure that the people of Lagos have a stronger and more effective political representation. He reiterated that the future of Lagos is too important to be left in the hands of a divided and dysfunctional opposition. He pledged to work closely with party members, leaders, and stakeholders to support policies and programs that will drive growth and development across the state.
The political landscape in Lagos is expected to shift significantly following Jandor’s return to the APC. His departure from the PDP has left a vacuum within the opposition, raising questions about the party’s ability to present a formidable challenge in future elections. His criticisms of the PDP leadership echo concerns raised by other party members who have also accused certain figures of working against the party’s interests. His decision to return to the APC is likely to strengthen the ruling party’s dominance in Lagos, as he brings with him a significant support base that had initially hoped for a strong opposition alternative.
Jandor’s political journey has been marked by bold moves and strategic decisions, and his return to the APC underscores his belief that the party remains the best platform for achieving meaningful political impact. He assured Lagosians that his commitment to service, integrity, and progress remains steadfast and that he will continue to advocate for policies that will improve the lives of the people. He called on his supporters to remain united and focused, emphasizing that the collective goal is to build a better and more prosperous Lagos.
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