Dr. Abdul-Azeez Adediran, widely known as Jandor and the former governorship candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Lagos State, has announced his return to the All Progressives Congress (APC).
In a press conference held on Monday at his office in Ikeja, Lagos, Jandor confirmed his decision to defect to the APC, weeks after resigning from the PDP.
He cited internal crises and a lack of party discipline within the PDP as the primary reasons for his departure, expressing frustration over the party’s failure to address anti-party activities during the 2023 general elections.
“Our experience in the PDP was marred by working with political saboteurs, but we’ve decided to prioritize our future over the past.
“After extensive consultations with family, political associates, elder statesmen, and supporters—who all share our vision for a more prosperous Lagos—we’ve realized that a political party’s core mission is to win elections and form a government that enhances the welfare, security, and development of the people. As such, we have made the decision to join a political party that prioritizes victory for its members, regardless of who is on the ballot.”
He revealed that he consulted widely across various political groups, including the Social Democratic Party (SDP), African Democratic Congress (ADC), and Young Progressive Party (YPP), before ultimately deciding to rejoin the APC.
Responding to concerns regarding his previous departure from the ruling party, Jandor used a Yoruba proverb to explain his decision: “If a woman has not tried two husbands, she may not know which one is better.”
Jandor further stated, “In the APC, we have a leader who, regardless of criticisms, is committed to ensuring victory for his party, benefiting all members, followers, and the state. In contrast, in the Lagos PDP, we had a leader who consistently worked against his own party and dashed the hopes of many party members. We’ve chosen the better alternative.”
He emphasized that his return to the APC was not a decision made lightly but rather a commitment to the progress of Lagos State and the unity needed among progressives to achieve the collective goals of the people.
Jandor also acknowledged the efforts of President Bola Tinubu’s Chief of Staff, Femi Gbajabiamila, and President Tinubu’s son, Seyi Tinubu, for their role in persuading him to return to the APC.
“I want to express my gratitude to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, who recognized our contributions to democracy and nation-building,” he said. “I must also recognize the tireless efforts of Rt. Hon. Femi Gbajabiamila, the Chief of Staff to the President, who has been encouraging me for over a year to come ‘home.’ When I resigned from the PDP, Seyi Tinubu immediately reached out, urging me to come back. His actions reflect the values he has learned from the best.”
Jandor reassured his supporters that his decision was in the best interest of Lagos and urged them to join him in this new political chapter. “We remain committed to service, integrity, and progress. Together, we will continue to work towards a better Lagos for current and future generations,” he concluded.
