Former Oyo Works Commissioner Afonja defects from APC to APM after meeting with Engr Muftau Open Salawu, Wolekanle

Former Oyo State Commissioner for Works, Prof. Raphael Afonja, has joined the Allied People’s Movement and pledged to work with party leaders to strengthen its structure ahead of the 2027 general elections.

Afonja announced the move during a meeting on Sunday with Oyo State Local Government Service Commission Chairman Bashorun Akinwale Wolekanle and Oyo State Project Monitoring Agency Director-General, Engineer Open Salawu. The meeting held at Wolekanle’s residence in Bodija, Ibadan.

Discussions focused on unity, reconciliation, and mobilizing APM support across Ogbomoso, Oyo State, and beyond.

Wolekanle said the party is determined to build a “formidable political platform capable of delivering electoral victories.”

He added that Afonja’s defection would boost APM’s influence in Ogbomoso and other parts of the state.

“We are closing ranks to work together and deliver massive votes for the APM,” Wolekanle said. “We will ensure all stakeholders are carried along as we continue to build a united and formidable political family.”

Afonja said the time had come for “progressive-minded leaders to unite and provide credible political leadership.”

He said his decision was informed by a desire to contribute to the development of Ogbomoso and Oyo State, stressing the need for cooperation among political actors.

Salawu welcomed Afonja’s entry and expressed confidence that the collaboration would strengthen the party’s structure and position it for “greater success in the coming elections.”