Fresh political developments have emerged in Oyo State as former Deputy Governor of the state and Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) National Deputy Chairman (South), Taofeek Arapaja, is reportedly preparing to defect to the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) following an alleged meeting with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

Reports indicate that the move comes amid growing political tensions within the Oyo State chapter of the PDP over the party's preparations for the 2027 general elections.

Sources familiar with the development claim that Arapaja has become increasingly dissatisfied with the leadership of Governor Seyi Makinde, particularly over the party's governorship succession process.

According to the reports, consultations over Arapaja's proposed switch to the APC intensified after his reported meeting with President Tinubu. Sources further hinted that the former deputy governor is expected to formally resign from Governor Makinde's political structure before announcing his defection.

Political insiders also attributed the development to disagreements arising from the PDP's governorship primary, alleging that Arapaja felt sidelined during the process and believed his political influence within the party had diminished.

Reports further claimed that several appointments previously held by his loyalists were withdrawn during the governor's second term, while concerns over the withdrawal of his security details also contributed to the growing rift.

If confirmed, Arapaja's departure would represent one of the most significant political defections in Oyo State ahead of the 2027 elections and could strengthen the APC's position as political realignments continue across the country.

However, neither Arapaja nor President Tinubu has publicly commented on the reported meeting. Similarly, the Oyo State Government, the PDP, and the APC have yet to issue official statements confirming the alleged defection.

Political observers say the development reflects the increasing intensity of political calculations ahead of the 2027 elections, as major parties continue to reposition and court influential figures in key states.

As of the time of filing this report, the claims surrounding Arapaja's planned defection remain unconfirmed by the principal actors, and no official announcement has been made regarding his membership of the APC.