Ahead of the November 16 governorship election in Ondo State, no fewer than 5,000 members of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) defected to the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).
The defectors who were chieftains of the ruling party in the four local government areas of Akoko, joined the PDP at an event held in Ugbe in Akoko North East Local Government Area of the state.
Receiving the defectors, under the auspices of Feyisayo Feyipitan Ayodele (FEFA) Group, the party’s Chairman in Akoko North East, Giwa Kareem, described the defection as a welcome development, stressing that the poor leardeship provided by the APC occasioned the prevailing hardship which he said, transmogrify into the planned protest.
He said, “I am pleased to welcome all of you to the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP). Our country is currently facing significant challenges, and it has become evident that the APC has failed to provide any meaningful solutions for Nigerians. The hardships are intensifying, and people across the nation are feeling the strain of poor governance and unfulfilled promises.
“This wave of defections to the PDP is a strong indication of the growing dissatisfaction with the current administration. With each new member, our party gains strength and momentum. It is clear that we are on the path to reclaiming the leadership position in the state. The collective efforts and unity within our ranks will play a crucial role in our success.
“As we move forward, it is imperative that each of you remains committed and proactive. We must all work tirelessly for the party in the upcoming election. Our dedication and hard work will be the driving force behind our victory. Together, we can bring about the change that Nigerians so desperately need and deserve.
Earlier, the gubernatorial candidate of the PDP, Hon. Agboola Ajayi, hailed the decision of the defectors to join the opposition party. He rationalized that the ruling party had failed to provide quality leadership for the people of the state.
“I appreciate your decision to join the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP). The All Progressives Congress (APC) has significantly hindered the development of our state, leading to numerous setbacks and a lack of progress. The current administration’s policies have created an environment where hardship is increasingly affecting the lives of residents, making daily living more difficult. This situation calls for urgent intervention and a change in leadership to restore hope and prosperity to our state.
“It is evident that the APC has little to offer in terms of meaningful solutions and progress. Their tenure has been marked by stagnation and regression, leaving our state in a worse condition than before. Your commitment to the PDP is crucial at this juncture, as we need dedicated and passionate individuals who are willing to put in their best efforts to ensure we can oust the current administration. Your support and hard work will be instrumental in mobilizing our community and galvanizing efforts to bring about the necessary change.
“I have a comprehensive plan to improve the lives of our people and foster sustainable development. By working together, we can build a brighter future for our state, where every resident has the chance to thrive and succeed. Your decision to join the PDP is a step in the right direction, and together, we can achieve great things for our community.
One of the defectors who was a prominent Chieftain of the APC, Hon. Feyisayo Ayodele, pledged to ensure victory for the PDP and also urged other members to eschew disunity ahead of the governorship election.
He added that “The APC structure of Ondo state is being run by a particular minister in the FCT and a few of his cohorts that have little to no regard for the rule of law and the democratic process that holds our country together”.
“Joining the PDP, we can win back our state and allow for a fair and free electoral process. Agboola Ajayi will bring new ideas and economic development to our state which will help alleviate poverty in our and create new job opportunities for the indigents, primarily the youth.”
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