Major Political Shift: Former Ondo Accountant General, Dr. L.L. Ibukun, Leads Mass Defection from PDP to APC in Ifedore
In a significant political realignment set to reshape the political landscape of Ifedore Local Government Area, the former Accountant General of Ondo State and respected leader of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Dr. Layiwola Lawrence Ibukun, has officially defected to the All Progressives Congress (APC), bringing with him a large number of PDP members from Ijare Ward 2.
The defection, which took place during a well-attended stakeholders meeting in the ward, marks a major boost for the APC as it continues to strengthen its grassroots presence ahead of upcoming political engagements.
Dr. Ibukun, who until now was a top leader of the PDP at both the state and local government levels, cited persistent internal crises and irreconcilable differences within the PDP as the primary reasons behind the move. He explained that the decision came after extensive consultations with community leaders, party executives, women and youth leaders across ward, local government, and state levels.
“This decision is not taken lightly. It is the result of deep personal reflection and wide-ranging consultations. The APC offers a more viable platform to continue delivering meaningful change and democratic dividends to my people,” said Dr. Ibukun.
He was warmly received by Ijare Ward 2 APC stakeholders, led by Engr. Tuyi Agboola, who hailed the defection as a landmark development for the party.
“Today, we welcome a big fish into the big ocean,” Engr. Agboola declared. “Dr. Ibukun’s leadership experience and clear understanding of political dynamics at all levels will be an invaluable asset to APC. His move is a strong signal that the APC remains the party of the people.”
Agboola emphasized that Dr. Ibukun did not come alone, but was joined by a formidable team of former PDP executive members, ward leaders, and loyal supporters, thereby further consolidating the APC’s dominance in the area.
Hon. Olusola Owolanke also described the development as a “great plus” for the APC, commending Dr. Ibukun’s visionary and people-oriented leadership style.
“Dr. Ibukun’s legacy in the PDP was marked by compassion, progress, and real impact. His leadership earned him deep respect among the people. We are glad to have such a remarkable figure among us now,” Owolanke added.
In his remarks, Hon. Adedayo Ayodele, a Special Assistant to Governor Aiyedatiwa, praised the move and expressed optimism that Dr. Ibukun would bring renewed energy and innovative ideas to the APC.
“This defection is not just symbolic; it is a clear sign that APC is the party of progress. Dr. Ibukun’s methods and leadership will be emulated across all levels of the party,” he said.
He also assured the defectors that there would be no discrimination between old and new members, encouraging them to contribute fully to the party’s mission.
Also speaking, Hon. Oladapo Akingbola, the councillor representing the ward, lauded Dr. Ibukun’s decades of selfless service, describing him as a beacon of hope whose political journey has always been driven by a passion for community development.
The Ijare Ward 2 Chairman, Owoeye Moyin, reflected on Dr. Ibukun’s professional integrity and philanthropic legacy, which he said have inspired many to follow him into the APC.
“Through his unwavering commitment to positive change, Dr. Ibukun has made a real difference. His defection today is proof that true leadership transcends party lines,” Moyin added.
With this major defection, the APC in Ifedore is expected to experience a renewed sense of momentum and unity, positioning the party strongly ahead of future elections.