The political structure of the Ogun State House of Assembly has undergone a major shift, transforming into a one-party chamber after the final group of opposition lawmakers defected to the ruling party.
What was once a competitive assembly—comprising members of the All Progressives Congress and the Peoples Democratic Party—has now become entirely controlled by the APC, leaving the PDP with no representation in the legislature.
⚖️ How the Shift Happened
The transformation did not occur overnight. It began shortly after the 2023 elections, when the Assembly had 17 APC lawmakers and 9 PDP members.
A turning point came following a legal dispute over the Ikenne State Constituency seat. The Court of Appeal nullified the election of a PDP lawmaker and ordered that the seat be reassigned to an APC candidate, reducing the PDP’s numbers.
Over time, more defections followed. Two lawmakers from the opposition crossed over to the APC, further weakening the PDP’s presence.
The final blow came when the remaining six PDP lawmakers—including Minority Leader Lukman Adeleye—officially joined the APC, giving the ruling party complete control of the Assembly.
🗣 Defectors Cite Internal Crisis
Speaking after the move, Adeleye confirmed the decision, attributing it to ongoing internal divisions within the PDP at the national level.
The crisis, involving factions linked to figures such as Nyesom Wike, was cited as a key reason for abandoning the party.
According to him, aligning with the ruling party was seen as a more stable political option ahead of future elections.
⚠️ PDP Condemns Move as Betrayal
The PDP leadership in Ogun State has strongly criticised the defections. State Secretary Sunday Solarin described the action as a betrayal of the party and the voters who elected the lawmakers.
He argued that the defectors should have resigned their positions before switching parties, insisting that retaining their seats while changing allegiance undermines democratic principles.
Solarin maintained that the lawmakers’ decision reflects political opportunism rather than genuine ideological differences.
✅ APC Defends Development
On the other hand, the APC has welcomed the development, describing it as a reflection of the party’s performance in the state.
The party’s spokesperson credited the leadership of Dapo Abiodun, stating that effective governance and stability have attracted opposition members.
According to the APC, having a unified legislature could enhance cooperation between the executive and legislative arms, leading to smoother policy implementation.
⚖️ Concerns Over Democratic Balance
Despite the political realignment, analysts have raised concerns about the implications of a one-party legislature.
Public affairs commentator Olayinka Folarin described the situation as troubling, warning that it could limit political diversity and reduce checks and balances in governance.
He noted that while politicians have the right to change parties, a lack of opposition voices may weaken accountability and restrict voter choice.
🔍 What It Means Going Forward
The emergence of a single-party Assembly highlights a growing trend in Nigeria’s political landscape, where opposition influence is shrinking in certain regions.
While some see the development as a sign of political stability, others argue it poses risks to democratic principles, particularly the need for debate, scrutiny, and alternative viewpoints.
As the situation unfolds, attention will likely focus on how the lawmakers carry out their responsibilities and whether governance remains transparent and accountable despite the absence of opposition voices.
