Enilolobo Refutes Defection Rumours, Reaffirms Loyalty to APC and President Tinubu
By Taiwo Olapade
A chieftain of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Hon. Abdullahi Ayinde Enilolobo, has strongly denied reports circulating in some quarters that he plans to defect to the African Democratic Congress (ADC) to join his mentor and former Osun State Governor, Ogbeni Rauf Aregbesola.
Enilolobo challenged those accusing him of anti-party activities and plotting to dump the APC to provide evidence, describing their claims as baseless and driven by malice aimed at tarnishing his reputation.
Speaking on Oro Re, a live programme on Adamimogo 93.1 FM in Lekki, Lagos, Enilolobo emphasized that none of his detractors have contributed to the success of the APC as much as he has since joining and serving as a leader for many years.
As one of the apex leaders of the party in Alimosho Local Government Area, Enilolobo said he had chosen not to engage in verbal battles with detractors within the party, many of whom, he noted, were major beneficiaries of Ogbeni Rauf Aregbesola’s political goodwill.
He maintained that he has never left the progressive fold since joining active politics almost four decades ago.
Commenting on the strained relationship between President Bola Tinubu and former Minister of Interior, Ogbeni Rauf Aregbesola, Enilolobo said, “No well-trained child will pass judgment in a dispute between his parents.”
He described both Tinubu and Aregbesola as political fathers, expressing surprise that they are currently at odds. However, he acknowledged that those labeling Aregbesola a traitor have the right to their opinions.
Enilolobo also revealed that from December till now, he has been falsely linked to different political parties, including the Labour Party, Social Democratic Party (SDP), and ADC, all in a bid to undermine his political prospects ahead of the 2027 general elections.
Speaking on his recent meeting with President Bola Tinubu in Lagos, Enilolobo explained that the encounter gave him the opportunity to clear misconceptions and present details of his efforts in support of the President.
He added that APC leaders in Lagos State have intervened in the Alimosho crisis, and he would refrain from further comments to avoid jeopardizing the reconciliation process.
Enilolobo urged Nigerians to reflect on the nation’s situation before President Tinubu assumed office, stressing that the current reforms, though challenging, will ultimately yield positive outcomes.
He reaffirmed his confidence in the President’s leadership, describing him as a listening, accessible, and compassionate leader who genuinely understands the people’s struggles during this period of national transition.
