2027: Ex-PDP Governorship candidates Jegede, Agboola Ajayi join ADC in Ondo Coalition Push
Ahead of the 2027 general elections, two former governorship candidates of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Ondo State — Eyitayo Jegede and Chief Agboola Ajayi — have formally joined the African Democratic Congress (ADC), in a major political shift aimed at forming a strong coalition against the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) and President Bola Tinubu’s administration.
The development marks a significant realignment in Ondo State’s political landscape, with other notable politicians also defecting to the ADC. These include former Senator representing Ondo South, Nicholas Tofowomo; former House of Representatives member, Prof. Bode Ayorinde; ex-PDP State Chairman, Tola Alabere; and former PDP Publicity Secretary, Kennedy Peretei.
Speaking during the inauguration of the state chapter of the coalition, Ayorinde, who now serves as the coalition’s state coordinator, declared that the movement is rapidly gaining traction across the state’s local government areas.
“All the local governments are with us. Our numbers are increasing, and we will continue to build on the momentum,” Ayorinde said. He emphasized that the coalition is not driven by financial inducement but by grassroots mobilization and inclusive politics, with membership cards set to be distributed across all wards.
He confirmed the involvement of key political figures, stating: “The former PDP governorship candidates for the 2020 and 2024 elections — Eyitayo Jegede and Agboola Ajayi — are with us. Senator Nicholas Tofowomo, Mr. Tola Alabere, and Mr. Kennedy Peretei are also part of this movement.”
Ayorinde ruled out any personal ambition, urging local leaders to embrace inclusive leadership as Ondo State prepares for its next governorship poll. He noted that the coalition began with just 25 members but now boasts over 300, which he said is a reflection of the APC’s failure.
In his address, Kennedy Peretei described the ADC-led coalition as a timely response to the nation’s political challenges. He noted that many influential politicians have joined the party, signaling growing public discontent.
“You heard Prof. Ayorinde mention the names. But beyond the big names, the state of the nation and Ondo in particular demands a new direction,” Peretei stated.
He further revealed that in at least two local government areas, PDP structures have completely merged into the ADC, effectively ending the PDP’s presence there.
“People feared Nigeria was becoming a one-party state. That fear is disappearing fast. The reactions from those in power show just how much pressure the ruling party is under. After today, more ripples will follow,” he added.
Peretei also pointed to internal divisions within the APC, suggesting that the coalition intends to capitalize on the party’s internal crisis.
“There’s a lot of bad blood in the APC. We are poised to maximize that opening. Nigerians should be ready for what comes next,” he said.
The growing coalition under the ADC umbrella is expected to reshape the political dynamics in Ondo State and potentially influence the national stage ahead of the 2027 elections.
