A prominent contender for the Oyo State Government House in the 2027 elections, Chief Niyi Aborisade, has publicly clarified the reasons behind his recent political move from the Peoples' Democratic Party (PDP) to the African Democratic Congress (ADC).
A Defection Driven by Principle, Not Personal Gain
Speaking candidly on the Yoruba political programme, Òsèlú Àwarawa, aired on Dominion FM 106.1 in Ibadan, the United Kingdom-based legal practitioner stated that his departure was motivated by deep-seated issues within the PDP. He attributed his exit to unresolved leadership crises and the overwhelming influence of what he termed "power-drunk leaders" within the party's structure in Oyo State.
Aborisade emphatically denied ever receiving financial benefits, favours, or contracts from Governor Seyi Makinde or the state government. He asserted that this clean record provided him with the moral fortitude to leave the PDP without any fear of repercussions. "I did not leave PDP because of personal ambition alone. I left because the party has failed to resolve its internal contradictions. The PDP in Oyo State has met its Waterloo," he declared during the interview on 10 January 2026.
He described the decision as a difficult but necessary step, explaining that staying in a party where impunity was commonplace would have been a betrayal of his conscience and political beliefs.
Past Grievances and A New Political Home
The governorship aspirant revisited a prior incident that shaped his view of the PDP's internal democracy. He revealed that ahead of the 2023 general elections, he had purchased nomination forms to contest for a seat in the House of Representatives under the party's banner. However, he and other aspirants were allegedly compelled to step down for a candidate favoured by higher party authorities.
"We were promised refunds of our campaign expenses, but I deliberately refused to collect a single kobo from anyone. My politics has never been about personal enrichment," Aborisade stressed, highlighting his commitment to principle over pecuniary gain.
His choice of the ADC as a new platform was influenced by the party's internal structure, transparency, and level playing field. He noted that the ADC offers equal opportunities to all aspirants, a quality he found lacking in his former party. Aborisade gave assurances to ADC members and supporters that he would remain loyal to the party even if he does not secure the governorship ticket, provided the selection process is credible and fair.
"As long as there is honesty, accountability, and transparency, I am ready to support whoever emerges. However, I am confident that ADC will entrust me with the flag for 2027," he stated. When questioned by a caller about the possibility of defecting again if denied the ticket, he ruled it out, insisting his political loyalty is guided by principles, not a desperate quest for power.
Policy Stance and Appeal to Voters
Addressing the contentious Circular Road project in Oyo State, Aborisade offered his perspective. While acknowledging Governor Makinde's efforts in road construction and rehabilitation, he criticised the administration's approach to the project, describing it as having elements of land-grabbing.
He promised that if elected governor, his administration would prioritise the welfare of affected residents, ensure humane treatment, and provide adequate compensation. "Development must not come at the expense of the people. Compensation and human dignity must be central to governance," he affirmed.
In his closing remarks, Aborisade made a direct appeal to the electorate in Oyo State and across Nigeria. He urged voters to give the ADC a chance, arguing that they have already witnessed what the two dominant parties, the All Progressives Congress (APC) and the PDP, have to offer. His campaign is positioning itself as a principled and transparent alternative for the 2027 polls.
