No fewer than 74 ward coordinators of the Iyaniwura Foundation, a political structure associated with Senator Iyabo Obasanjo, have reportedly withdrawn their support from the structure and declared their backing for the All Progressives Congress (APC) candidate for Ogun Central Senatorial District, Senator Shuaib Afolabi Salisu Omoyayi.

The development took place yesterday when Senator Salisu received the coordinators alongside scores of former members of the ­Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) from Abeokuta South who formally joined the APC.

The delegation was led by prominent former PDP leaders, including Alhaji Moruf Akanbi Olajide, former PDP Chairman, Abeokuta South; Mrs. Ayoka Adams, former PDP State Ex-Officio; Hon. Gbenga Adewale, former PDP LGA Secretary; Mrs. Bola Lawal, former PDP Chairperson, Ward 3; Alhaji Sikirulai Ola Akinbo, former PDP Chairman, Ward 4; Alhaja Idayat Adeboye, former PDP Chairperson, Ward 4; Alhaji Wale Olaosebikan, former PDP Ward Chairman and member of the Abeokuta South 23 Wisemen; Mr. Safaru Sobodun, former PDP Chairman, Ward 8; Chief Akeem Yinus, former PDP Chairman, Ward 9; Mr. Wasiu Bakare, former PDP LGA Assistant Secretary and former PDP LGA Legal Adviser; Hon. Sodiq Akinwande, former PDP Councillorship Candidate for Ward 10 in 2020; Elder Soyode, former PDP leader from Ward 13; and Mrs. Ganiyat Olasibi, Leader, Women in Politics, Abeokuta South.

Other former PDP ward executives and party members from different wards in Abeokuta South also attended the gathering.

Speaking during the reception, Senator Salisu described the defection as an indication of growing confidence in the APC and the leadership being provided by the party.

“I am particularly encouraged by the calibre, experience and commitment of those who have made this decision to join our great party. This is not just about numbers. It is about people with political experience making a conscious decision to join us because they believe in the direction we are taking,” Senator Salisu said.

He welcomed the new members into the APC, assuring them that their decision would not be taken for granted.

“To everyone who has joined us today, I welcome you wholeheartedly to the APC family. You have made the right decision, and I assure you that your confidence in our party and in my vision for Ogun Central will not be misplaced,” he said.

The former PDP leaders also explained that their decision was based on their desire to work with a political platform they believe can deliver effective representation, development and empowerment to the people.

The leader of the decampees, Alhaji Moruf Akanbi Olajide, a former PDP Chairman in Abeokuta South, said the decision followed consultations among the affected leaders and coordinators.

“We are not here merely to announce a political movement. We are here because we have looked at the situation carefully and decided that it is time to work with Senator Salisu and the APC. We believe in his capacity, accessibility and commitment to the people,” Olajide said.

He added that the decision was made collectively by leaders and coordinators who were interested in contributing to a stronger political structure ahead of the 2027 elections.

The 74 Iyaniwura Foundation ward coordinators are expected to join Senator Salisu’s grassroots mobilisation efforts across Ogun Central, with their involvement expected to further strengthen his campaign structure ahead of the 2027 general elections.

The event was also attended by Hon. Afolabi Afuape, Member of the House of Representatives, Abeokuta Federal Constituency; Hon. Lookman Atobatele, Member, Ogun State House of Assembly, Abeokuta South Constituency I; Hon. Ademuiya, APC candidate for Constituency II; Alhaja Faidat, APC Chairman, Abeokuta North; Engr. Babatunde Adesina, Director-General, SAS Campaign Organisation; and Hon. Folasade Adeyemo, Chairman, Odeda Local Government.

Senator Salisu said his campaign would remain open to stakeholders across political divides who share the vision of building a stronger Ogun Central.

“As we approach the 2027 general election, we are not merely working for a political victory. We are building a movement focused on effective representation, development, empowerment and a better future for the people of Ogun Central.

“This is more than numbers. It is about bringing people together, strengthening our party and creating a united political family capable of delivering the dividends of democracy to our people.”

He added that he would continue to welcome people from different political backgrounds who were willing to contribute to the development of the senatorial district.

“I remain committed to working with every stakeholder, irrespective of political background, who shares our vision for a stronger, more prosperous and progressive Ogun Central,” Senator Salisu said.