Lagos APC defection of Ayodeji Da-Silva strengthens party ranks as leaders welcome him from PDP and praise his political influence

The Lagos State chapter of the All Progressives Congress All Progressives Congress on Tuesday formally received Hon. Ayodeji Da-Silva in Lagos, following his defection from the Peoples Democratic Party Peoples Democratic Party, in a politically charged ceremony held in the Amuwo/Festac constituency.

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The Lagos APC defection Ayodeji Da-Silva event attracted party executives, local leaders and stakeholders, who described his entry into the ruling party as a major boost to grassroots mobilisation ahead of future elections.

Representing the Lagos State APC Chairman, Pastor Cornelius Ojelabi, members of the state executive formally received Da-Silva and presented him with party symbols in a ceremony marked by celebration and renewed political optimism.

The Executive Chairman of Amuwo Odofin Local Government, Prince Lanre Sanusi, popularly known as PLS, hosted the reception and described the defection as timely, noting that residents were already beginning to feel what he called early dividends of democracy under APC leadership.

In his remarks, Da-Silva expressed delight at his return to the ruling party, describing it as a homecoming after a period outside its fold.

He pledged to consolidate political structures across all 14 wards in the constituency and integrate his previous networks into the APC.

He also committed to mobilising broad support for the party at all levels, stressing that unity and coordination would be key to electoral success in the area.

Former Minister and Senator Musiliu Obanikoro also addressed the gathering, describing Da-Silva’s defection as a valuable political gain for the party.

He noted that the influx of experienced politicians strengthens APC’s organisational reach and electoral prospects.

Obanikoro, however, cautioned that success within the party would depend on performance and integration, adding that internal processes would determine future opportunities for new entrants.

He also used the occasion to highlight ongoing federal initiatives under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, pointing to reforms in education, agriculture and healthcare as part of long-term economic planning.

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The event ended with renewed assurances from party leaders that the APC remains open to new members while maintaining expectations of discipline, structure and electoral delivery.