Popoola Olukayode Joshua (POJ), the 2023 gubernatorial candidate of the New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP) in Oyo State, has officially defected to the All Progressives Congress (APC). His move reflects growing tensions within the NNPP, particularly in the Southwest region.

POJ, a former Federal Controller of Works in Lagos, initially joined the NNPP in 2022 after leaving the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP). He contested in the 2023 Oyo State gubernatorial elections, seeking to unseat incumbent Governor Seyi Makinde.

The defection was formalized at his Ward 10 in Ibadan North East Local Council. Oyo State APC Chairman, Alhaji Abass Olaide, welcomed POJ into the party during a ceremony at the APC secretariat. Accompanying him were other notable figures, including former NNPP state chairman Adegbola Adesesan and ex-Lagelu Local Council chairman Ade Adewuyi.

Speaking at the event, POJ expressed his commitment to collaborating with APC leaders to secure victory in the 2027 elections. “I am here to join forces with APC stalwarts to ensure the party reclaims the state,” he declared.

POJ’s defection aligns with the broader strategy of APC National Chairman, Dr. Abdullahi Ganduje, who has called on party members nationwide to focus on re-electing President Bola Tinubu in 2027. During a recent meeting with Oyo APC stakeholders in Abuja, Ganduje emphasized the importance of reclaiming Oyo State from the PDP in the upcoming election cycle.

The Abuja meeting was attended by key figures, including Minister of Power Adebayo Adelabu, members of the state’s National Assembly caucus, and other party leaders, all underscoring the APC’s determination to strengthen its political presence in Oyo State.