Three members of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) in Ondo State have defected to the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) ahead of the November 16 governorship election.
Ebenezer Adeniyan, Chief Press Secretary to Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa, disclosed this in a statement on Sunday.
He revealed that the trio joined the APC during Governor Aiyedatiwa’s campaign tour in Ikare Akoko and other communities on Saturday.
According to the statement, Stephen Olemija, a former House of Representatives member for Akoko North East/North West Federal Constituency; Lekan Bada, former Chairman of Akoko North East and the PDP candidate in the recent House of Reps by-election for the constituency; and PDP leader Momoh Mufu, popularly known as Apongan, defected to the APC.
The governor, who is the APC flagbearer in the upcoming election, personally received the defectors.
Meanwhile, Governor Aiyedatiwa, along with his deputy and running mate, Dr. Olayide Adelami, visited Iboropa, Akunnu, and Ikare Akoko, where they addressed residents and engaged with traditional rulers.
The governor emphasised the overwhelming support from these communities as a testament to the positive impact of his administration in Ondo State.
At Ikare Akoko, the local government headquarters, Governor Aiyedatiwa received royal blessings from the Olukare of Ikare, Oba Akadiri Momoh, and the Owa-Ale of Iyometa, Ikare, Oba Adeleke Adegbite.
Expressing gratitude for the warm reception and royal blessings, Governor Aiyedatiwa acknowledged the monarchs’ role in his emergence as the APC flagbearer, attributing his success in the primaries to their prayers and support.
In response to the royal fathers’ requests, the governor assured them that their needs would be integrated into the 2025 budget, reaffirming the government’s commitment to equitable development across the state.
Governor Aiyedatiwa pledged that, if elected, his administration would intensify efforts to prioritize the welfare of all citizens in Ondo State.
“I am truly humbled by the incredible show of support from the people of Ikare. Your commitment to our vision for a better Ondo State fills me with immense pride. Ikare has always been a beacon of progress, and your loyalty reassures us that our efforts are being recognised and valued.”
The governor outlined some of his administration’s accomplishments, such as improvements in infrastructure, agriculture, and education.
“We have achieved so much together, from upgrading our roads to enhancing agriculture and investing in our schools, but our work is far from over. With your continued support on November 16, we can deliver even more transformation and development”, the governor said.
