EXCLUSIVE: Why Hon. Abimbola Adekanmbi Resigns from APC, Set to Join PDP
Barely fourteen months after Oyo State Governor, Engr. Seyi Makinde, appointed a notable chieftain of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Hon. Abimbola Adekanmbi, to chair the 11-man committee for the upgrade of Alakia Airport, Ibadan, to an international standard, the seasoned technocrat and financial expert has formally dumped the APC and is set to join the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).
A Strategic Move Long in the Making
Political observers in Oyo State have described Adekanmbi’s resignation as the culmination of quiet realignments that began shortly after Governor Makinde’s surprising decision in July 2024 to appoint him — an opposition figure — into a strategic committee role.
That appointment, sources say, was a sign of mutual respect between the governor and Adekanmbi, who, despite party differences, is widely admired for his intellect, professionalism, and passion for Oyo State’s development.
According to insiders, Adekanmbi’s decision to exit the APC was not impulsive but a carefully considered move reflecting both his disillusionment with the current direction of the APC in Oyo and his belief that Governor Makinde’s developmental strides align more with his vision for a modern, economically vibrant Oyo State.
“Adekanmbi has always been about results, not rhetoric. His alignment with Makinde’s vision for infrastructure and financial reforms predates this decision. What we’re seeing is a convergence of ideology, not just politics,” a close associate told Egalitarian Voice on Friday.
A Graceful Exit from APC
In a formal letter addressed to the APC Chairman, Ward 1, Ibadan North East Local Government, Adekanmbi described his resignation as the closure of “a significant chapter” in his political journey that began with the founding of the APC.
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“I hereby formally tender my resignation from the All Progressives Congress (APC). This marks the close of a significant chapter in my political journey, one that began from the very inception of the party,” he wrote.
“Through seasons of growth and challenge, I have remained steadfast in my commitment, and I am grateful for the honour to contribute, in my own way, to the service and progress of our dear Oyo State.”
He extended warm regards to APC leaders and members at all levels, acknowledging years of shared commitment and camaraderie.
“Over the years, I have had the privilege of working alongside passionate men and women at the ward, local government, state, and national levels. Together, we shared moments of purpose, built enduring bonds, and shaped collective memories that I will always hold dear.”
From Technocrat to Political Bridge-Builder
Hon. Abimbola Adekanmbi, a former Commissioner for Finance and Deputy Chief of Staff under late Governor Abiola Ajimobi, is known for his financial acumen and pragmatic approach to governance. He once served as the Executive Secretary of the State Revenue Board, where he pioneered reforms that improved Oyo’s internally generated revenue during Ajimobi’s administration.
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Although he contested for the Oyo South Senatorial ticket under the APC in 2019 and 2023, sources reveal that internal party fractures and leadership tussles left him frustrated with the state chapter’s internal democracy.
“Adekanmbi is one of the few politicians who blend administrative expertise with grassroots appeal. His quiet defection will shake the political arithmetic ahead of 2027,” another political analyst observed.
Set to Join PDP
Multiple credible sources confirm that Adekanmbi has concluded plans to formally join the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in the coming days, with Governor Makinde expected to personally receive him in Ibadan.
The move is seen as both a reinforcement of Makinde’s bridge-building strategy and a signal of continued defections from the opposition APC, which has struggled to rebuild cohesion since the 2023 elections.
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With Adekanmbi’s entry into the PDP, analysts believe Oyo’s political landscape is about to witness another wave of strategic alignments ahead of the 2027 general elections.
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By Egalitarian Voice Media
(Edited by Wisdom Oluwadarasimi)
