Aiyedatiwa Faces Threat As PDP Candidate Gains APC Defections

Aiyedatiwa Faces Threat As PDP Candidate Gains APC Defections

In a significant political development, over 1,000 members of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) in Ondo State announced their defection to the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) on Wednesday. The defectors, representing all 208 wards and 18 local government areas of the state, expressed their commitment to supporting Mr. Agboola Ajayi, the PDP governorship candidate, in the upcoming November 16 election.

The announcement drew a sharp response from the Lucky Aiyedatiwa Campaign Organisation Foot Soldiers. Spokesman Mr. Kayode Fasua dismissed the defectors as political opportunists motivated solely by financial incentives.

The PDP’s campaign for the Ondo State governorship election, scheduled by the Independent National Electoral Commission to commence on June 19, gained momentum with a rally at Akure town hall. At the event, Agboola Ajayi warmly welcomed the defectors into the PDP fold, citing widespread dissatisfaction with alleged mismanagement under the APC-led administration in the state.

Ajayi pledged to offer a viable alternative to address the grievances of Ondo State residents, emphasizing the PDP’s readiness to foster positive change. He urged the new members to collaborate with existing party structures to ensure victory in the forthcoming election.

“We are focused on reclaiming the state, and strategic planning is crucial for success in the November 2024 polls,” Ajayi declared. “As new members, your rights will be safeguarded, and we will ensure equitable access to all opportunities within the party.”

The State Chairman of the PDP, Mr. Tola Alabere, assured the defectors of fair treatment within the party, describing their decision as a step toward propelling the state forward.

Former APC Organising Secretary in Akure South Local Government, Akinwande Fayinminu, explained that the lack of internal democracy within the APC prompted their departure. He criticized the party’s leadership for operating without inclusivity, likening its practices to secrecy.

In response, Fasua of the Aiyedatiwa campaign downplayed the significance of the defections, alleging that many attendees at the PDP rally were paid participants. He predicted that public sentiment in Akure would favor Governor Aiyedatiwa once APC campaign activities commenced in earnest.

“These so-called defectors citing hunger as their reason for leaving APC are mere mercenaries, switching allegiance to suit their own interests,” Fasua asserted. “Their transient support will soon shift again when another party makes its bid.”

As campaigns intensify, the political landscape in Ondo State remains dynamic, characterized by strategic alliances and competitive rhetoric ahead of the gubernatorial election.