A philanthropist and Asiwaju of Ayere Kingdom in Kogi West, Prince Olatunji Olusoji, has officially joined the All Progressives Congress (APC).
Olusoji, who is the Chief Executive Officer of Grosvenor Group and founder of the Prince Olatunji Olusoji Foundation (PROOF), was formally received into the ruling party by the Kogi State Governor, Alhaji Usman Ododo, at an event that marked his formal defection from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to the APC, with party leaders and government officials in attendance.
His entry into the APC was described by party leaders as a significant boost to the party’s strength in Kogi West and the state at large.
Speaking at the event, he said his decision to join the APC was based on his belief that the party had positively shaped governance at both the federal and state levels. He noted that his long-standing commitment to community development, education and empowerment aligns with the vision of the present administration in the state.
Over the years, Prince Olusoji has gained recognition for his philanthropic activities across Kogi West and beyond. Through his foundation, PROOF, he has supported students, institutions and vulnerable groups with scholarships, educational funding, empowerment programmes and social interventions, running into hundreds of millions of Naira. His efforts have earned him several awards for service to humanity.
He assured Governor Ododo of the support of the Okun people, stating that they were prepared to back the governor’s administration and its development agenda. He expressed confidence in the leadership of the governor and pledged to mobilise political and grassroots support for the APC in Kogi West.
“I want to assure you that I am ready to work and support you fully. In my interactions with you, I have seen your commitment to service and your fear of God. I believe you understand the people and where you come from. My people are ready to support your administration and its vision for Kogi State,” he said.
He noted that the Okun nation believes in fairness, equity and justice, adding that their support for the APC is rooted in the hope of inclusive governance and balanced development across all zones of the state.
In his response, Gov Ododo described his decision to join the APC as timely and significant. He said the philanthropist’s entry into the ruling party reflects confidence in the direction of governance in Kogi State.
According to the governor, the people of Kogi State had benefited immensely from Olusoji’s interventions, particularly in education and youth development. He cited scholarships and financial support extended to students of Kogi State College of Education and other institutions across the country.
“Prince Olusoji has chosen to invest in the future rather than watch from a distance,” the governor said. “His contributions have impacted many families and communities. His decision to join the APC validates the path we are taking in Kogi State.”
The Governor also paid tribute to the former governor, Yahaya Bello and other leaders of the party, for laying the foundation for unity and progress within the APC in Kogi State. He expressed optimism that the inclusion of influential figures like Prince Olusoji would further strengthen the party’s presence and effectiveness across the state.
He acknowledged the role of elder statesmen in shaping political leadership, specifically appreciating Chief James Ibori for his mentorship and influence, which he said, had helped nurture leaders committed to public service. Prince Olusoji, who also serves as the Patron of the Kogi Market Men and Women Association, used the occasion to empower members of his constituency with vocational and business kits. The empowerment programme, according to the organisers, was aimed at promoting self-reliance and economic stability among beneficiaries.
Party leaders and supporters commended him for his consistency in supporting community development regardless of political affiliation. They noted that his decision to formally join the APC signalled a new phase of political engagement anchored on service, development and grassroots participation.
