Aborisade Hails Akinwumi’s Defection to ADC as Bold Step Towards Rebuilding Progressive Politics
A leading governorship aspirant of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) in Oyo State, Barrister Niyi Aborisade, has congratulated Hon. Balarabe Bala Akinwumi on his formal defection from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to the ADC, describing the move as “timely, courageous and historic.”
In a congratulatory message made available to journalists on Wednesday, Aborisade, an Ibadan chief and legal practitioner, said Hon. Akinwumi’s decision to join the ADC marks a major turning point in the ongoing realignment of progressive forces ahead of the 2027 general elections.
The colourful defection ceremony held in Akure, Ondo State, attracted an estimated crowd of over 5,000 supporters who followed Hon. Akinwumi into the ADC, further strengthening the party’s rising profile in the South-West.
According to Aborisade, the massive turnout was a clear testimony to Akinwumi’s political relevance, grassroots appeal and long-standing commitment to public service.
“This defection is not just about changing party colours; it is about rescuing the hopes of the people and restoring credibility to progressive politics. Hon. Bala Akinwumi has made a principled decision that will resonate across the region,” Aborisade stated.
He commended Akinwumi for his honesty and courage in openly addressing the circumstances that forced his exit from the PDP, noting that many loyal party members had become disillusioned by what he described as poor leadership, internal injustice and the steady collapse of democratic values within the opposition party.
Aborisade further described the ADC as a party built on discipline, internal democracy and people-oriented governance, adding that the party is fast becoming the preferred platform for credible politicians and patriotic Nigerians seeking genuine change.
The event was attended by top party leaders including Engineer Jide Adeniji; the Oyo State ADC Chairman, Alhaji Yinka Olona; the Osun State ADC Chairman, Dr. Charles Omidiji; the Ondo State ADC Chairman, Barrister Wole Ademoyegun; and the party’s governorship candidate in Ekiti State, Ambassador Bejide, among other stalwarts.
Addressing the gathering, Hon. Akinwumi said he took the difficult decision to leave the PDP after years of loyal service, stressing that his efforts to rebuild the party were repeatedly frustrated by what he termed “destructive leadership and lack of sincerity.”
He pledged his full commitment to the ADC’s progressive ideals and promised to work tirelessly to strengthen the party at all levels.
Barrister Aborisade concluded by expressing confidence that the momentum generated by the defection would further consolidate the ADC’s position as a major political force in the South-West and beyond.
“With men of integrity like Hon. Akinwumi joining hands with us, the future of ADC is bright, and the hope of our people for good governance is renewed,” he said.