Arapaja loyalist, Damola Olayiwola, dumps PDP for APM, endorses Adekanmbi’s 2027 Governorship Bid

Ambassador Taofeek Arapaja and Hon. Damola Olayiwola, has declared his support for the Allied People’s Movement (APM) and endorsed the party’s 2027 governorship candidate, Hon. Bimbo Adekanmbi.

Olayiwola made the declaration on Friday while addressing his supporters, saying his decision followed extensive consultations and careful consideration of the political future of Oyo State.

The politician, who was accompanied by a large number of supporters, described Adekanmbi as a visionary, competent and experienced administrator with the capacity to reposition Oyo State through purposeful leadership, inclusive governance and people-oriented policies.

The endorsement comes against the backdrop of growing political permutations ahead of the 2027 governorship election and speculations surrounding the political future of Ambassador Arapaja, who has been linked with a possible defection to the All Progressives Congress (APC) amid reported disagreements within the political camp of Governor Seyi Makinde.

While the reports have continued to generate debate within the state’s political landscape, Olayiwola made it clear that he would not be joining the APC, declaring instead that he had pitched his political tent with the Allied People’s Movement.

Explaining the rationale behind his decision, Olayiwola said Adekanmbi possesses the leadership qualities, administrative experience and vision required to move Oyo State to greater heights.

“After careful consultations and reflection, I am convinced that Hon. Bimbo Adekanmbi is the kind of leader Oyo State needs at this critical period. He is experienced, competent and genuinely committed to the welfare of the people,” he said.

He noted that the APM governorship candidate has consistently demonstrated capacity, integrity and a deep understanding of governance, qualities he said distinguish him from other aspirants ahead of the 2027 contest.

“Our state deserves a leader with courage, vision and the ability to harness our enormous human and natural resources for the benefit of all. Adekanmbi represents that new direction. He has what it takes to deliver sustainable development, create economic opportunities and provide quality leadership for the people of Oyo State.”

Olayiwola further stated that his decision was driven by the desire to contribute to the emergence of a government that would prioritise job creation, infrastructure development, youth empowerment, improved education, healthcare delivery and economic prosperity.

He stressed that politics should be centred on competence and the collective interest of the people rather than personal ambition or political affiliations.

Calling on political stakeholders, community leaders, youths, women, party faithful and residents across the state to support Adekanmbi’s aspiration, Olayiwola expressed confidence that the APM candidate would emerge victorious if given the opportunity to serve.

“I urge our people to look beyond party sentiments and support a candidate with proven capacity. Adekanmbi has demonstrated the experience, character and commitment needed to move Oyo State forward. Together, we can build a more prosperous, peaceful and economically vibrant state.”

He assured his supporters of his unwavering commitment to mobilising grassroots support for the APM across Ibadan South East and other parts of the state, pledging to work with like-minded individuals to ensure the party records significant success in the 2027 general election.

The endorsement is expected to further reshape the political dynamics in Oyo State as consultations, alliances and realignments continue ahead of the 2027 elections, with major political actors intensifying efforts to consolidate their support bases across the state.