In a major political defection ahead of the upcoming local government elections in Lagos State, scores of Labour Party (LP) members formally switched allegiance to the All Progressives Congress (APC) during a high-energy rally held at the Mobolaji Johnson Arena (formerly Onikan Stadium).
Leading the defection was Femi Badia, Chairman of the Labour Party in Apapa Local Government Area, who brought along several members from the Lagos Central Senatorial District into the fold of the ruling APC.
Addressing a cheering crowd, Badia praised the leadership qualities and developmental achievements of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, declaring his group’s firm support for the APC going forward.
“We are here today to become part of the progressive movement,” Badia announced.
“We have been inspired by the remarkable achievements of President Tinubu and Governor Sanwo-Olu in Lagos. This is our formal declaration of membership and our firm commitment to support President Tinubu’s re-election in 2027. I can assure you that we will deliver our polling units come Saturday.”
The defectors were warmly received by Lagos APC Chairman, Pastor Cornelius Ojelabi, who handed them the party’s flag and commended their decision to join what he described as the “winning team.”
“I congratulate you for embracing the vision of the progressives and aligning with the achievements of our leader, President Bola Tinubu,” Ojelabi said.
“In the APC, hard work is always recognised. You have chosen to be on the side of progress after witnessing what we’ve accomplished in Lagos State.”
Ojelabi also used the occasion to rally support for APC’s candidates in the July 12 local government elections, expressing confidence that the party would record a clean sweep across all 20 local government areas and 37 local council development areas.
“We started our campaign in peace, and we are rounding it off today,” he noted.
“I thank all the leadership of this senatorial district, the GAC leaders, our cabinet members, and our teeming supporters across ethnic nationalities.”
The APC chairman emphasized the importance of continued grassroots mobilisation, urging party members to intensify door-to-door campaigns and reach out to non-Yoruba-speaking residents of the state.
“I appreciate all of you, especially the women and the youths. We know your importance and how you have been supporting our party. I have no doubt that come July 12, you will cast your votes for the APC for a better future.”
The defection is seen as a boost for the APC’s chances in the polls, reinforcing its dominance in Lagos politics while weakening the Labour Party’s foothold in key voting areas.
