Abeokuta – In a move signalling a major boost for the ruling party, Hon. Tolulope Philips, the Labour Party (LP) candidate for the Abeokuta South Federal Constituency in the 2023 general elections, has officially defected to the All Progressives Congress (APC).
The high-profile decamping ceremony, which took place at the APC secretariat in Abeokuta South Local Government, was attended by a full complement of the party’s local executive committee.
Philips was formally received by the Chairman of the All Progressives Congress APC) in Nigeria, APC and the Chairman of all APC Local Government Chairmen in Ogun State, Hon. Henry Fagbenro, popularly known as Agbomola.
In his address, Hon. Fagbenro heralded Philips’ defection as a testament to the party’s growing appeal under the leadership of President Bola Tinubu and Governor Dapo Abiodun.
“Today, we are here to welcome a great son of Abeokuta South, Hon. Tolulope Philips, into our progressive fold. His decision to leave his former party is a clear affirmation that the APC remains the only viable platform for meaningful development. With immediate effect, he is recognised as a leader in the Abeokuta South APC and will be given all prerogatives and rights accorded to every loyal member. There will be no discrimination against him; we are one united family,” Fagbenro declared.
The event followed a formal handover at the ward level, where the Ward 7 Chairman, Alhaji Isiaka Babalola, presented Philips to the local government leadership. Alhaji Babalola expressed his delight, stating, “We in Ward 7, Ijaye/Idiaba, are proud to receive our son back into the party where he truly belongs. His return strengthens our grassroots structure and we are confident he will contribute significantly to our future victories.”
Echoing this sentiment, the Abeokuta South APC Secretary, Mr. Saheed Idowu, said, “This is not just a defection; it is a homecoming. Hon. Philips’s understanding of our political landscape will be invaluable. We are excited to integrate his energy and vision into our executive deliberations.”
The party’s Women Leader, Mrs. Faderera Fadipe, highlighted the importance of inclusivity. “We welcome Hon. Philips and assure him that the women’s wing is solidly behind him. We look forward to him championing initiatives that will empower our women and youth,” she said.
The atmosphere was further electrified when Hon. Philips announced a personal donation of One Million Naira (₦1,000,000) towards the renovation and reshaping of the local government party secretariat. This gesture was met with resounding applause from the gathered party faithful.
The Youth Leader, Mr. Kabiru Odedairo, who received the donation alongside the Treasurer, Alhaja Olabisi Oyerogba, was full of praise. “This generous act by our new leader demonstrates his commitment from day one. It shows he is not just here to talk but to work and invest in the party’s growth. The youth are particularly motivated by this,” Odedairo stated.
A Ward 7 Ijaye/Idiaba Youth leader, Comrade Wasiu Oladipo Fashina, also welcomed his kinsman, saying, “Tolu has always been a grassroots person. His return to APC is a blessing for us in Ijaye/Idiaba. We are ready to work with him to deliver Ward 7 overwhelmingly in the next election.”
In his response, Hon. Tolulope Philips cited the need to contribute to the progressive governance of the state and nation as his primary reason for joining the APC.
“I am grateful for the overwhelming reception. I have come to join the winning team to support the good works of Governor Dapo Abiodun and President Bola Tinubu. This donation is just my initial contribution to the party that has now become my home. I am ready to work with every leader and member in Abeokuta South to ensure our continued dominance,” Philips affirmed.
Political analysts see this defection as a significant coup for the APC, effectively consolidating its hold on the Abeokuta South constituency ahead of future elections.
