Shockwave In Ondo! NNPP’s Governorship Candidate Edema Dumps Party, Joins APC

The New Nigeria People’s Party (NNPP) governorship candidate in Ondo State, Gbenga Edema, has officially defected to the All Progressives Congress (APC).

His decision comes shortly after losing a legal battle at the Court of Appeal in Akure, where he challenged the validity of the APC primary election that produced Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa as the party’s flagbearer.

In a letter directed to the NNPP Chairman in Mahin Ward 11, Ilaje Local Government Area, Edema cited internal crises within the NNPP as the main reason for his departure.

“I wish to humbly inform you of my intention to resign my membership of the party with immediate effect,” he stated in the letter.

He further explained that remaining in the NNPP would be counterproductive to his political aspirations, emphasizing that the party’s internal disarray makes it unfit for any serious political contender.

“This is not healthy for any serious-minded party seeking to win elections, which is the fundamental purpose of political parties,” he said.

Edema also accused the NNPP leadership of betrayal, claiming they abandoned his candidacy by withdrawing a valid court case in favour of a rival party.

“In over 35 years of active political engagement, I have never witnessed a party leadership so treacherous as to undermine its own candidate in such a manner.

“It is clear that the party’s goals and values are completely out of sync with those of any credible political institution.

“With this letter, I officially end my membership in the New Nigeria People’s Party, effective May 9, 2025,” he concluded.