By A political tug-of-war is unfolding in Lagos as Abdul-Azeez Olajide Adediran better known as Jandor makes his return to the All Progressives Congress (APC), leaving behind his recent stint with the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP). No
Once the PDP’s 2023 candidate for the governorship race, Jandor formally rejoined the APC at a press briefing on Monday, following a meeting with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu at Aso Rock. His move, which ended weeks of swirling rumors, marks a dramatic turnaround in his political journey.
Jandor, who initially emerged as a rising figure in the APC before launching his own *Lagos4Lagos* Movement and later securing the PDP’s ticket, faced a setback in the recent election. He managed only 62,000 votes, trailing far behind Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu’s 762,000 and the Labour Party candidate’s 312,000 votes.
At the press conference, Jandor explained that after extensive consultations, he decided to switch back to the APC. He criticized the PDP for its failure to maintain discipline and for internal conflicts that, in his view, undermined their electoral performance. Although he considered other parties—such as the Social Democratic Party (SDP) and the African Democratic Congress (ADC)—he ultimately chose the APC for its organized leadership and proven electoral strategy. He also expressed gratitude toward President Tinubu, Chief of Staff Femi Gbajabiamila, and Seyi Tinubu for their support in facilitating his return.
In response, PDP Chairman Philips Aivoji lambasted Jandor, accusing him of having been a disruptive influence during his time with the party. “He joined us with promises but ended up creating divisions. His departure now allows us to rebuild our unity,” Aivoji asserted, dismissing Jandor’s stint with the PDP as nothing more than a calculated move to destabilize the party.
On the APC side, spokesperson Seye Oladejo welcomed the former candidate back, noting that his return underscores the strength and discipline of the APC. “Jandor’s comeback is a clear testament to our party’s superior structure and leadership. It signals that those seeking real political direction will always find a home in the APC,” Oladejo remarked.
As Lagos braces for the upcoming electoral battles, both parties appear determined to consolidate their positions, with this latest defection further highlighting the shifting political allegiances in the state.
