In what can only be characterized as a significant political upheaval with resounding implications, the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Ondo State has experienced yet another substantial setback, this time losing hundreds of its members across all 18 local government areas to the All Progressives Congress (APC). The defections, primarily led by members of the National Union of Road Transport Workers (NURTW), signify yet another episode in the PDP’s escalating crisis and the APC’s growing political strength in anticipation of the 2027 presidential election.
The individuals who defected, disillusioned by what they referred to as “the decay within the PDP,” made their dramatic departure with a clear message: they are no longer willing to wait for internal reform. Their new allegiance? The APC, the ruling party that they now believe represents the future of both Ondo State and Nigeria.
At the APC Secretariat in Akure, the atmosphere was celebratory as State Chairman, Ade Adetimehin, welcomed the new members into what he confidently termed “a party without opposition” in Ondo State. His assurance was unmistakable, almost theatrical, as he promised the defectors equal treatment and a role in the APC’s growing political framework.
“In APC, we do not practice discrimination,” he asserted. “There are no distinctions between old members and new members; we are all equal.” A subtle critique of the PDP? Possibly. However, more significantly, it is a declaration from a party poised to leverage unity as it advances toward 2027.
Adetimehin attributed the wave of defections to President Bola Tinubu’s achievements in the state his appointments, his initiatives, and his visible contributions to Ondo’s infrastructure. The message was unequivocal: Tinubu is making progress, Ondo is observing, and the populace is reacting.
Yet, perhaps the most politically charged moment arose from the leader of the defectors, Mr. Ojo Adewole, of the Asiwaju Transport Movement. His testimony was not merely supportive; it was fervent, emotional, and almost evangelical.
According to him, the defection of the group was motivated by President Tinubu’s commitment to continuing significant road projects and the political clout of the Minister of Interior, Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo. Adewole referred to him as “a true leader,” a statement that holds considerable significance given the minister’s increasing popularity.
What stood out to observers was the genuine nature of the concerns expressed by the NURTW members:
roads.
For most politicians, roads are merely statistics. However, for transport workers, they represent a vital lifeline. With the ongoing road expansions in Ondo, including the Benin–Ilesa highway, the Ore–Ondo–Akure corridor, the Akure–Ado–Ekiti route, and the ambitious coastal highway, the NURTW members perceive something that the PDP has failed to provide for years: tangible progress.
Their message?
“We understand the importance of good roads. President Tinubu didn’t merely continue the abandoned projects; he expedited them. That is the reason we joined the APC.”
The defections signify more than just a political transition; they serve as a warning. The PDP in Ondo is experiencing a decline, while the APC is gaining momentum not through coercion, but through loyalty driven by performance.
As Ondo approaches 2027, one undeniable truth emerges:
In politics, the roads you construct today will determine the votes that propel you tomorrow.
