A chieftain of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Lagos State, Ayodeji Da-Silva, has revealed plans to defect to the All Progressives Congress (APC), attributing his decision to a growing alignment with what he described as progressive and people-focused policies.
Da-Silva, a healthcare professional and seasoned politician from Lagos Island, said the move is driven by his desire to contribute more meaningfully to the development of Lagos State. He emphasized his vision of transforming Lagos into a globally competitive city, comparable to major urban centres such as New York.
After more than two decades in the PDP, he stated that his planned defection is rooted in his belief that the APC offers a stronger platform for implementing forward-looking policies capable of advancing national growth.
The technocrat-turned-politician noted that his foray into politics was inspired by a commitment to improving the welfare of Nigerians, particularly through reforms in the healthcare sector. He maintained that political leadership remains a crucial tool for driving sustainable development and long-term change.
With academic qualifications in industrial chemistry and healthcare administration, Da-Silva has built a distinguished career in the health sector. He previously served as a Regional Director for a Health Maintenance Organization (HMO) in Detroit, Michigan, United States, where he gained extensive international experience.
His political journey began during his student years, when he held leadership roles before contesting elective positions, including the Lagos West Senatorial seat and the presidency.
Responding to criticisms of the current administration, Da-Silva called for patience among Nigerians, likening governance reforms to the gradual process of constructing a building, which may initially present challenges. He added that while Nigeria is still developing, it has recorded notable progress in areas such as technology, real estate, and diplomacy, cautioning against direct comparisons with more advanced economies.
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