Eyitayo Jegede Dumps PDP, Joins Atiku’s ADC Ahead Of 2027 Election

Former Ondo State governorship candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Eyitayo Jegede, SAN, has joined the African Democratic Congress (ADC), alongside several of his supporters and other political figures who recently left the PDP and All Progressives Congress (APC).

The defection was formally announced during a reception held at NEPA Park in Akure, Ondo State, on Thursday. ADC National Secretary and former Osun State Governor, Rauf Aregbesola, joined other party leaders at the event to welcome the new members.

According to Bush Radio Academy, Jegede led a group of politicians into the ADC as the party continues to expand its structure ahead of the 2027 general elections. Former Vice-President and ADC presidential candidate Atiku Abubakar was also present at the reception alongside other senior members of the party.

Jegede, who contested the Ondo governorship election twice on the PDP platform, was accompanied by supporters and political associates during the event. Among those who reportedly followed him into the ADC were former PDP Board of Trustees member Segun Adegoke, serving PDP chairmen in Ondo West and Owo local government areas, as well as former political office holders and lawmakers.

Speaking after his reception into the party, Jegede linked his decision to prevailing concerns about unemployment, economic hardship and rising living costs. He said he and his supporters were joining the ADC to contribute to what he described as an effort to provide a democratic alternative.

Aregbesola, who represented the party’s leadership at the event, urged ADC members in Ondo State to strengthen grassroots mobilisation ahead of the 2027 elections.

Atiku also welcomed Jegede and his supporters into the party, describing the development as significant to their political relationship. He said the ADC would continue building its presence across the country ahead of the general elections.

The reception in Akure comes as political parties and political groups intensify efforts to expand their structures and mobilise supporters ahead of the 2027 general elections.