Jandor Dumps PDP For APC

Former Lagos State governorship candidate under the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Dr. Abdul-Azeez Adediran, widely known as Jandor, has officially rejoined the All Progressives Congress (APC).

Jandor made the declaration on Monday at a press conference held in his Ikeja office, weeks after announcing his resignation from the PDP.

Citing internal conflicts and a lack of discipline within his former party, he expressed frustration over PDP’s failure to address internal sabotage during the 2023 elections.

He said, “Our story in the PDP was a case of working with perennial political saboteurs but we have resolved to love our future much more than we hate our past.”

Explaining the decision behind his political switch, Jandor noted that he had engaged in extensive consultations with various stakeholders, including political allies, elder statesmen, and Lagos residents who align with his vision.

“After extensive consultations with family, political associates, elder statesmen, supporters, and well-meaning Lagosians who share our vision for a greater and more prosperous Lagos, and in identifying that the primary reason a political party exists is to win elections and ultimately form the government to contribute to the welfare, security and total development of the people, we wish to formally announce that we have decided to join a political party that considers winning for its members as top priority, not minding who is on the ballot.

“We have decided to return to the All Progressives Congress.”

Jandor disclosed that before making this decision, he explored discussions with various political parties, including the Social Democratic Party (SDP), African Democratic Congress (ADC), and Young Progressive Party (YPP).

Addressing concerns about why he initially left the APC, he responded with a Yoruba proverb, suggesting that experiencing different situations helps in making informed choices.

“Before you are quick to remind me of the reasons upon which we left APC in the first place, let me respond with a popular Yoruba adage that says if a woman has not tried two husbands, she probably would not know which is better.”

He contrasted the leadership styles within both parties, stating that while APC is structured around winning elections, PDP has a history of internal sabotage that undermines its members’ chances.

“In APC, we have a leader, even if you fault his selection choices, you can’t fault his desire to always win for his party to the benefit of all members, followers and the state.

“While in Lagos PDP, you have a leader that will, at every election cycle work against his own party, and willfully dash the hopes of many party members and followers. We have chosen the better alternative,” he stated.

Emphasizing that his decision was made in the best interest of Lagos, Jandor called on his supporters to align with him in this new political direction.

“Our return to the APC is not a decision made lightly. It is a reflection of our unwavering commitment to the progress of Lagos State and our belief that unity among progressives is essential to achieving the collective aspirations of our people.”

He acknowledged the role of President Bola Tinubu’s Chief of Staff, Femi Gbajabiamila, and Tinubu’s son, Seyi Tinubu, in convincing him to return to the ruling party.

“Let me once again extend our sincere gratitude to the President and the Commander-In-Chief of the Armed Forces, Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu, who recognized our modest contributions to democracy and nation building.

“I must also recognize the relentless efforts of the Chief of Staff to the President, Rt. Honourable Femi Gbajabiamila, who has been on our case for over one year to return ‘home’, and join hands with Mr. President.

“Upon hearing the news of my resignation from the PDP, the President’s son, Mr. Seyi Tinubu immediately put a call across to say ‘Egbon, this is the time to come back home.’ Prior to that time, Seyi had exhibited the learnings he has had from the best and reached out, asking for support for the administration of his father, the President. What more can a father ask for.”

Jandor reassured his supporters that this move was made with Lagos’ best interests in mind and urged them to support him in this new chapter.

“We remain committed to the values of service, integrity, and progress. Together, we will continue to champion the cause of a better Lagos for present and future generations,” he said.