Former Osun State Governor, Olagunsoye Oyinlola, has alleged that politicians defecting to the All Progressives Congress (APC) may be doing so because they have committed crimes or are acting out of selfishness, despite the current economic challenges facing Nigeria.

Speaking during a live radio political programme in Osogbo on Sunday, Oyinlola expressed surprise at the high rate of defections to the ruling party, noting that the APC-led federal government has failed to fulfill its campaign promises to Nigerians.

"For me, two things can be the reason why they are moving to the APC. The first is that maybe they have committed a crime, and they want a soft landing, thereby going to the APC to save themselves," Oyinlola stated.

"The second thing is selfishness. Those decamping are selfish because I've not heard anyone of them saying they are decamping because of the masses. It is about themselves," he added.

The former governor further emphasized that these politicians did not seek the blessing of the electorate who voted them into office before switching parties.

Wave of Defections Across Nigeria

Recent weeks have witnessed a surge in political defections across Nigeria. In Delta State, Governor Sheriff Oborevwori, his deputy, members of the state House of Assembly, National Assembly representatives, and the entire PDP machinery have all moved to the APC.

Similarly, reports indicate that Akwa Ibom State Governor, Umo Eno, has revealed intentions to defect to the APC. Governor Eno reportedly warned his political appointees to defect with him or resign from his administration.

In Osun State, Wole Oke, the representative of Obokun/Oriade Federal Constituency, recently resigned from the PDP and joined the APC, a move that has drawn significant criticism from party members in the state.

Oyinlola's comments come at a time when many Nigerians are questioning the motivations behind these political realignments, especially as the country grapples with economic hardship and challenges that many citizens attribute to the policies of the current administration.