Why I Joined Makinde: a Former Adelabu Aide’s Political Leap in 2026

In a candid 2026 interview, former Personal Assistant to the erstwhile Minister of Power, Chief Adebayo Adelabu, Ajiboye Akande Sangogade, popularly known as Boye Nation, finally answered the question on everyone’s mind: why I joined Makinde. The ex‑Adelabu aide disclosed that his departure from the All Progressives Congress (APC) to the Allied Peoples Movement (APM) was driven by personal conviction, a desire for a fresh political platform, and a belief that Makinde’s vision aligns with the aspirations of ordinary Nigerians.

Background: From the Ministry of Power to the Political Frontline

Before his political realignment, Sangogade served as the chief aide to Minister Adelabu during a turbulent period for Nigeria’s power sector. His tenure gave him front‑row exposure to policy formulation, stakeholder negotiations, and the day‑to‑day challenges of delivering electricity to a nation of over 200 million people. While the experience sharpened his administrative acumen, it also highlighted the limits of party politics when it comes to implementing long‑term reforms.

By early 2026, internal frictions within the APC – ranging from candidate selection disputes to ideological rifts over economic recovery – prompted several senior operatives to reassess their affiliations. Sangogade, who had long admired the technocratic approach of former Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde, saw an opening to contribute to a movement that promised pragmatic governance.

Why I Joined Makinde: The Core Convictions

The phrase why I joined Makinde encapsulates three interlocking convictions that Sangogade articulated during the Vanguard interview. First, he cited Makinde’s track record in Oyo State, where the governor’s focus on education, health, and infrastructure earned tangible results despite fiscal constraints. Second, Sangogade highlighted the APM’s internal democracy – a stark contrast to the top‑down decision‑making he experienced in the APC. Finally, he stressed personal integrity: aligning with a leader whose values mirror his own, especially on transparency and youth empowerment.

“I was looking for a platform where ideas are judged on merit, not on patronage,” Sangogade told Vanguard. “Makinde’s administration proved that good governance can thrive even with limited resources, and that resonated with my own belief that Nigeria needs leaders who act, not just promise.”

The APM’s Appeal: A New Home for Disenchanted Politicians

Since its inception, the Allied Peoples Movement has positioned itself as a centrist alternative to the dominant parties. In 2026, the APM’s manifesto emphasised fiscal responsibility, renewable energy, and digital transformation – themes that align with Sangogade’s expertise from his time in the Ministry of Power.

Moreover, the party’s internal structures allow for grassroots input. Local chapters can propose policy ideas, and a national council reviews them before they become part of the official platform. This participatory model attracted several former APC officials who felt stifled by the party’s hierarchical nature.

For Sangogade, the APM offered a chance to leverage his experience without being constrained by party politics. “I can now contribute to policy debates on power sector reforms, education, and youth employment without the baggage of factional infighting,” he explained.

Implications for Nigerian Politics in 2026 and Beyond

Sangogade’s move is more than a personal career decision; it signals a broader shift in Nigeria’s political calculus. As the 2027 general elections loom, defections from the APC to emerging parties like the APM could reshape coalition dynamics, especially in the South‑West where Makinde’s influence is strongest.

Political analysts note that the APM’s growing roster of technocrats and former civil servants may boost its credibility among urban voters who are increasingly disillusioned with traditional party politics. If the trend continues, the 2027 elections could see a more fragmented but competitive landscape, with voters evaluating candidates on policy depth rather than party loyalty alone.

Furthermore, Sangogade’s public endorsement of Makinde may encourage other former aides and ministers to consider similar moves, potentially creating a ripple effect across other regions, from Ghana’s opposition parties to South Africa’s emerging civic movements.

Personal Reflections: From Power Ministry to Political Advocacy

When asked about the emotional aspect of leaving a familiar party, Sangogade admitted a sense of loss but also relief. “Leaving the APC felt like walking away from a family that had become toxic. Joining Makinde is like finding a new family that shares my vision for Nigeria’s future.”

He also reflected on the challenges of building a new political identity. “People will always ask, ‘Why the switch?’ My answer is simple: I want to be part of a government that delivers results, not just rhetoric.” This sentiment resonates with many young Nigerians who are tired of broken promises and are seeking leaders who can translate ideas into action.

What the APM Offers to Its New Members

For newcomers like Sangogade, the APM provides several concrete benefits:

• Policy Workshops: Regular training sessions on governance, budgeting, and sector‑specific reforms.
• Mentorship Programs: Direct mentorship from senior figures such as Governor Makinde and former ministers.
• Grassroots Mobilisation: Structured platforms for community engagement, allowing members to test ideas at the local level before scaling.

These mechanisms aim to transform the party from a mere electoral vehicle into a think‑tank that can influence national policy.

FAQ

1. What motivated Ajiboye Akande Sangogade to leave the APC? He cited personal political conviction, dissatisfaction with internal party democracy, and alignment with Makinde’s governance style.
2. How does the APM differ from the APC in terms of internal structure? The APM operates on a bottom‑up model where local chapters propose policies that are vetted by a national council, fostering greater member participation.
3. Will Sangogade’s defection impact the 2027 elections? Analysts believe his move, along with similar defections, could strengthen the APM’s presence in the South‑West and influence coalition formations.

For the full interview, see the original Vanguard article here.

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