Lagos APC Celebrates Da-Silva’s Defection from PDP with Grand Reception

The All Progressives Congress (APC) in Lagos State on Tuesday staged a high-profile reception for Hon. Ayodeji Da-Silva following his decision to leave the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and join the ruling party.

The ceremony, held within the Amuwo/Festac axis, attracted key party figures and grassroots stakeholders, many of whom described the defection as a major political boost for the APC in the constituency.

Officials representing the Lagos State APC Chairman, Pastor Cornelius Ojelabi, led by the party’s state secretary, formally welcomed Da-Silva into the fold. In a symbolic gesture, he was presented with the APC flag, marking his official entry into the party amid enthusiastic applause from supporters.

The event was hosted by the Executive Chairman of Amuwo Odofin Local Government, Prince Lanre Sanusi (PLS), who described Da-Silva’s move as both strategic and timely. He highlighted ongoing developments in Festac and neighboring communities, stating that residents were already witnessing what he called the “dividends of democracy,” with assurances of further progress.

In his remarks shortly after being received, Da-Silva expressed delight at rejoining the APC, which he described as his natural political base.

“It’s joy and happiness that I’m finally home where I belong. After a long sojourn outside the party, I’m back in APC,” he said.

He also pledged to galvanize support across all 14 wards in the constituency, noting that his political network would be fully integrated into the APC’s structure.

“I’m bringing my entire structure with me. Together with existing party frameworks, we will strengthen APC and ensure we win elections at all levels in this local government,” he added.

Former Minister, Ambassador, and Senator Musiliu Obanikoro, who spoke at the event, described Da-Silva’s defection as a valuable addition to the party’s strength.

“When a politician of his pedigree joins any platform, it is an added value. He didn’t come alone; he came with strong, resourceful individuals. We are blessed to have them,” Obanikoro said.

While acknowledging the APC as a broad-based platform capable of accommodating diverse interests, Obanikoro stressed the importance of performance and contribution.

“To whom much is given, much is expected. With his coming, we hope to not just win, but win convincingly in future elections,” he stated.

He also used the occasion to defend the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, pointing to reforms in critical sectors such as education, agriculture, and healthcare as evidence of a long-term development agenda.

“There is time to plant and time to harvest. The President is laying foundations that will position Nigeria among the world’s leading economies,” he said.

Obanikoro further reaffirmed Lagos State’s status as the nation’s economic powerhouse, attributing its success to consistent leadership and forward-looking policies.

Addressing questions about Da-Silva’s political prospects within the APC, he advised patience, noting that internal party mechanisms would determine future opportunities.

“Today is about welcoming him into the family. The rest will unfold in due time,” he concluded.