Over 10,000 members of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), led by Hon. Festus Akingbaso, have defected to the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Ondo State. Akingbaso, who was the PDP’s deputy governorship candidate for the 2024 elections and currently represents Idanre/Ifedore Federal Constituency in the House of Representatives, officially joined the APC during a ceremony held in Idanre, despite heavy rainfall.
Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa, represented by his deputy, Dr. Olayide Adelami, warmly welcomed the defectors. He praised Akingbaso for his bold move and described him as a true representative of his people. The governor said Akingbaso’s decision was based on the visible progress the APC has made at both the state and federal levels, adding that Ondo citizens are already seeing the positive results of President Bola Tinubu’s reforms.
The event also saw APC State Chairman, Engr. Ade Adetimehin, present the party flag to Akingbaso. He declared that with this defection, Idanre and Ifedore would now be strongholds of the APC, promising full support for the Tinubu-led administration’s Renewed Hope Agenda. He emphasized that the state is now united behind the ruling party.
In his address, Akingbaso expressed appreciation to Governor Aiyedatiwa for his leadership and commitment to grassroots development. He stated that his decision to switch parties was motivated by a desire to support the governor’s efforts and contribute more meaningfully to the development of the state.
Speaking on behalf of the new members, Dr. Kola Ademujimi, former Chief of Staff to ex-Governor Olusegun Mimiko, endorsed President Tinubu’s economic reforms and pledged that Idanre/Ifedore would work to ensure the President’s re-election.
Notable attendees included Senator Niyi Adegbomire representing Ondo Central, Hon. Ifedayo Abegunde of the NDDC, Hon. Derin Adesida from Akure North/South, Women Affairs Commissioner Dr. Seun Osemaye, and Hon. Oluwatosin Ajirotutu from the Ondo State House of Assembly.
