APC Welcomes Ayodeji Da-Silva as He Defects from PDP in Lagos, Boosting Grassroots Strength

APC Welcomes Ayodeji Da-Silva as He Defects from PDP in Lagos, Boosting Grassroots Strength

The All Progressives Congress (APC) in Lagos State has officially received Hon. Ayodeji Da-Silva into its ranks following his defection from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), in a move party leaders say will strengthen its grassroots influence in Amuwo-Odofin and Festac areas.

The defection ceremony, held in the Amuwo/Festac political constituency, attracted key stakeholders and party faithful, who described Da-Silva’s return to the APC as a strategic development ahead of future elections.

Representing the Lagos State APC Chairman, Pastor Cornelius Ojelabi, members of the state executive council formally received the new entrant, presenting him with the party’s flag in a symbolic induction witnessed by supporters and local leaders.

Chairman of Amuwo Odofin Local Government, Lanre Sanusi, popularly known as PLS, hosted the event and described Da-Silva’s defection as both timely and impactful. He said ongoing projects and policy efforts under his administration were already delivering visible benefits to residents of Festac and adjoining communities.

Speaking shortly after his induction, Da-Silva expressed satisfaction at rejoining the APC, which he described as his original political base.

“It’s joy and happiness that I’m finally home where I belong. After a long sojourn outside the party, I’m back in APC,” he said.

He further pledged to consolidate his political structures across the constituency, revealing plans to integrate supporters from multiple platforms into the APC’s existing framework.

“I’m bringing my entire structure with me. Together, we will strengthen the party and ensure victory at all levels,” he added.

Also speaking, former Minister and Senator, Musiliu Obanikoro, described the development as a significant gain for the party, noting that Da-Silva’s political influence would add value to APC’s electoral prospects.

“When a politician of his pedigree joins any platform, it is an added advantage. He came with strong and resourceful individuals, and we are glad to have them,” Obanikoro stated.

While emphasizing the APC’s capacity to accommodate diverse interests, Obanikoro urged the new entrant to demonstrate his political strength within the party structure.

“To whom much is given, much is expected. We expect that his coming will translate into convincing victories in future elections,” he said.

He also defended the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, highlighting ongoing reforms in key sectors including education, agriculture, and healthcare. According to him, initiatives such as student loan schemes and investments in food security reflect a long-term strategy for national growth.

Obanikoro further reaffirmed Lagos State’s position as Nigeria’s economic hub, attributing its sustained dominance to consistent governance and forward-looking policies.

On Da-Silva’s political future within the APC, he advised patience, stressing that party processes would determine subsequent developments.

“Today is about welcoming him into the family. The rest will unfold in due course,” he concluded.