By Joy Odor Reportcircle News
Osun East’s political landscape took a dramatic turn yesterday as two-term Senator Francis Adenigba Fadahunsi formally declared a strategic shift in his political journey, pledging renewed focus on regional development and signaling alignment with the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC).
Speaking at a packed event representing National Assembly members from the district, Fadahunsi expressed gratitude to God and the people of Osun East for their support over the past six years, while outlining a bold new path for the constituency’s future.
The Senator announced his defection from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to the APC, describing the move as a calculated and collective decision aimed at equitable representation and stronger federal partnerships to advance the Ife/Ijesa development agenda.
“We are at a moment of reflection, gratitude and renewal,” Fadahunsi declared. “Today, I stand before you to announce a break from the past and to share a decision that will shape the road ahead.”
He emphasized that the defection was motivated not by resentment, but by fairness, integrity, and a desire to ensure Osun East fully benefits from ongoing national reforms under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
Highlighting Achievements and Development Milestones
Fadahunsi cited tangible infrastructure and social development achievements under his tenure as proof of progress, including:
The ongoing dualisation of the Akure-Ilesa-Ife-Ibadan Expressway, reflecting the federal government’s commitment to regional connectivity.
Over 700 kilometres of paved rural roads and restored water supply systems across the district.
Establishment and growth of federal institutions, such as the Federal University of Agriculture, Iragbiji, and the Federal University of Health Sciences, Ila-Orangun.
Proposed health sector projects, including the Orthopedic Hospital in Obokun, the School of Nursing in Ijebu-Jesa, and the Federal Medical Centre in Ilesa, complemented by multimillion-naira medical equipment interventions.
“These milestones reflect a government that values human lives and prioritises sustainable development,” the Senator stated.
Alignment With National Reforms
Fadahunsi framed the move to the APC as a step to synchronize Osun East’s development with broader national reforms.
He described President Tinubu as “a partner in purpose,” highlighting programs like the Renewed Hope Ward Development Programme and federal policies aimed at economic stabilization, including fuel subsidy removal and foreign exchange unification.
“These are smart choices that free resources for investment in our people,” he said, adding that Osun State must align with forward-looking reforms to maximize development opportunities.
In a decisive political statement, the Senator and his supporters endorsed President Tinubu for a second term, praising improvements in infrastructure, national security, and economic management.
He reassured constituents that ongoing projects in Osun East would continue uninterrupted.
“To the political elite, our people are watching. Leadership must be about service, not self. Principles, not personalities, must guide us,” he cautioned, emphasizing accountability and citizen-centered governance.
Addressing residents directly, he urged collective action: “This is not a detour but a conscious step toward a more compelling future.
Let us gather with renewed hope to build the Osun and the Nigeria that our children deserve.”
Fadahunsi’s announcement signals a major realignment in Osun East ahead of upcoming elections, consolidating APC influence in the district and potentially reshaping party dynamics in the state.
Analysts note that the Senator’s move may accelerate development collaboration with federal authorities while intensifying political competition within the region.
The event underscored a central theme: leadership driven by service, aligned with national reforms, and rooted in tangible outcomes for constituents.
