APC members join PDP in Kwara ahead of 2027 elections

Hundreds of members of the All Progressives Congress in Alanamu Ward, Ilorin West Local Government Area of Kwara State, have joined the Peoples Democratic Party ahead of the 2027 general elections. The defectors were drawn from various polling units and were formally received during a rally at the PDP’s Alanamu Ward secretariat on Saturday. Party leaders and other stakeholders attended the event.

The new members were described as supporters of Senator Saliu Mustapha, who represents Kwara Central. Mustapha resigned from the APC in August after a prolonged disagreement within the party and later secured the PDP ticket to contest the Kwara Central senatorial election in 2027. Mustapha had previously contested the APC governorship primary, which was won by the Speaker of the Kwara State House of Assembly, Yakubu Danladi-Salihu.

He said his departure followed consultations with supporters, constituents and political stakeholders. He also cited developments within the Kwara APC and the conduct of its leadership, which he said had reduced his confidence in the party. Speaking for the defectors, AbdulRazaq Adio said their decision was primarily linked to their support for Mustapha.

He said the group would remain with the senator regardless of the platform on which he chose to pursue his political career. Adio also cited the leadership of former Senate President Bukola Saraki and what he called the direction of the PDP in Kwara State. He said the new members would work with other party supporters to secure victory for the PDP and its candidates in 2027.

Receiving the defectors, the PDP chairman in Alanamu Ward, Abdulgafar Alawo, described their arrival as an important addition to the party’s structure. He assured them of participation in party activities and urged them to contribute actively to the party’s growth.