2027: Akinyelure Explains APC Exit, Denies Pact With Aiyedatiwa
Former Senator representing Ondo Central, Ayo Akinyelure, has clarified the circumstances surrounding his move to the African Democratic Congress (ADC), dismissing speculation that his decision was based on a political agreement with Ondo State Governor, Lucky Aiyedatiwa.
Akinyelure, who is contesting the 2027 Ondo Central Senatorial election on the ADC platform, said his recent meeting with Aiyedatiwa was aimed at obtaining clarification about his political future in the All Progressives Congress (APC), rather than negotiating an alliance or seeking the governor’s personal support.
The former lawmaker explained that Aiyedatiwa had informed him that the APC had already settled on another aspirant for the Ondo Central senatorial ticket. According to Akinyelure, the governor’s disclosure influenced his decision to seek another platform from which he could pursue his political ambition.
He said the ADC subsequently offered him an opportunity to continue his political career and contribute his experience to the party, leading to his decision to leave the APC.
Akinyelure also rejected suggestions that his movement to the ADC was part of an emerging opposition arrangement against the APC. He maintained that his immediate objective was to secure a platform through which he could seek another mandate and continue representing the interests of people in Ondo Central.
The clarification comes against the backdrop of heightened political activity in Ondo State ahead of the 2027 elections. Earlier reports had also linked Aiyedatiwa to alleged support for opposition candidates, claims the governor has publicly rejected, insisting that he remains an APC leader and would not work against the party’s candidates.
Akinyelure said his ambition to return to the Senate is also connected to what he described as unfinished legislative business from his previous tenure. He said some bills and initiatives he began while in the National Assembly remain areas he intends to pursue if elected again.
The former senator further urged voters to assess candidates on their records and capacity for representation rather than party affiliation. He said his focus would remain the development of Ondo Central and attracting federal opportunities to the senatorial district irrespective of who emerges as president in 2027.
With the 2027 political contest gradually taking shape, Akinyelure’s clarification places his ADC candidacy within a broader realignment of political actors in Ondo State, while leaving the question of how former APC members and other stakeholders will position themselves ahead of the election open.
