Ahead of the forthcoming governorship election in Ondo state, prominent members of the People Democratic Party (PDP) and their supporters on Thursday, dumped the party for the ruling All Progressives Congress in the state (APC).
The new decampee, led by former Commissioner for Environment, Mr. Lebi Adepiti, and former Chairman of the Ondo State Oil Producing Areas Development Commission (OSOPADEC), Prince Debo Ajimuda, attributed their desire to join APC to the achievements recorded by Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa, with a short period of time.
The decampees also included former political office holders at State and local government levels, as well as local government and ward officers of the PDP in Ilaje Constituency 1 and Constituency II.
Speaking during their visit to Aiyedatiwa in his office, the PDP leaders said their decision to join the APC was hinged on their interest in supporting the governor in the next election.
While speaking on behalf of the decampees, Adepiti disclosed their desire to mobilise support for Aiyedatiwa in Ilaje and its environs ahead of the coming governorship election.
He said: “We are committed to supporting Governor Aiyedatiwa out of our own free will.
“We recognize his strong performance since he became governor and we believe in standing by our brother rather than seeking alternatives.
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“We believe it is our duty as brothers to unite with him and advance the State. The PDP no longer exists in Ilaje local government.
“Our ward executives, members, women leaders, councillors, and supervisors are all committed to the Aiyedatiwa project. We are ready for APC, we are ready to work for you.”
Speaking, Ajimuda commended Aiyedatiwa determination to develop the state and providing enabling environment for investors.
According to him, the governor has shown traits of great leaders since he assumed office and implored him to accommodate new entrants so as to join hands to work towards the governor’s victory in the next election.
The APC Chairman in the state, Engr. Ade Adetimehin, assured the new entrants that the party will accommodate them without any form of discrimination, saying all members would be given a level playing field.
Responding, Aiyedatiwa expressed his gratitude for their decision to join the APC and support his campaign, describing it as a strong indication of Ilaje people’s solidarity with him.
He assured the new members that they would retain their leadership roles within the APC, reflecting their positions in the former party.
Promising inclusive participation, Aiyedatiwa emphasized that the new members would not be marginalized but would enjoy the benefits and opportunities within the APC.
Those in attendance included the Secretary to the State Government, Hon. Tayo Oluwatuyi, the Chief of Staff to the Governor, Prince Segun Omojuwa, and other top government officials.
TheWitness
