The All Progressives Congress (APC) in Ipokia Local Government, Ogun State, has witnessed a major reconciliation as former governorship candidate of the Allied Peoples Movement (APM) in the 2019 election, Hon. Adekunle Akinlade, officially returned to the party alongside his supporters.
The event, held in Ipokia, brought together prominent APC leaders and stakeholders, including Chief Musibau Obanla, fondly known as Baba Obanla, who led the reception for Akinlade’s group.
Speaking at the gathering, Chief Obanla expressed delight at Akinlade’s return, declaring, “We are happy and proud to have you back, now Ipokia is sealed.” He called on all returning members to work hand-in-hand with existing party structures to further strengthen the APC ahead of future elections.
Also present at the event were the Executive Chairman of Ipokia Local Government, Hon. Afose Johnson; his deputy, Hon. Funmilayo Okewole; APC Party Chairman, Hon. Taiye Hunpetogi; Alhaji Fatai Ajibola; Hon. Abiodun Akofoyan; and Hon. Bankole Joel, among others.
In his remarks, Hon. Johnson welcomed the group and stressed the importance of unity among political stakeholders to guarantee the party’s success. Party Chairman, Hon. Hunpetogi, introduced the 12 Ward Chairmen present and assured the newcomers of inclusiveness within the party.
Describing the reunion as a “homecoming,” other leaders emphasized that the APC remains one big family committed to progress and development.
A visibly humbled Akinlade, fondly called Triple A, thanked party leaders for responding to their request for the meeting on short notice. He also praised the role played by Ogun State Governor, Prince Dapo Abiodun, in facilitating the reconciliation process.
Akinlade, a former House of Representatives member and governorship contender, described politics as a passionate venture that sometimes leads to misunderstandings. In a show of humility, he publicly apologised for any past grievances and prostrated in line with Yoruba tradition to affirm his commitment to peace and unity within the APC.
