Ondo State Governor, Hon. Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa, on Monday officially received Hon. Dayo Awude, the Labour Party’s deputy governorship candidate in the last election, along with his supporters, into the All Progressives Congress.
The Governor congratulated the new members, describing their decision to join the APC as wise. “APC has enough room for all of you. Your coming to APC is evidence that all the remaining votes APC didn’t get in the last governorship election will be for President Tinubu in the 2027 presidential election,” Aiyedatiwa stated.
The Governor emphasized that there is no room for opposition coalition in Ondo State, declaring that the entire state would support President Tinubu in 2027. He expressed confidence in the APC’s ability to retain power, stating the party has all it takes to maintain its dominance.
Hon. Dayo Awude explained their reason for joining the ruling party, citing Governor Aiyedatiwa’s developmental projects across the state. “We have come to support President Tinubu in the next presidential election and to support Governor Aiyedatiwa’s administration. We must work together to support President Tinubu. We have come to APC to add value,” Awude said.
APC State Chairman, Engr. Ade Adetimehin, noted that most of the defectors were former APC members returning to the party. He described APC as a welcoming home grounded in quality leadership and inclusive politics.
“Let us come with open hands. In our party, we recognize quality, and such qualities are acknowledged and rewarded with due compensation,” Adetimehin stated. He assured the new members of warm reception at the grassroots level and advised them to remain humble.
Speaking on behalf of the defectors, Mr. Olu Egbodofo stated their refusal to work against President Tinubu motivated their decision. “We cannot join others to throw stones at our own house,” he declared.
Another defector, Mr. Folagbade Gbemigadd, expressed relief at returning “home” after difficult experiences in other parties. “We will work and contribute our own part to the progress of the APC,” he pledged.
Dele Ogunbameru from the Social Democratic Party expressed joy at joining APC, appreciating the party leaders for their warm reception. “Our coming is an opportunity to work,” Ogunbameru noted.
The event, held at Akure Town Hall, was attended by top government officials including the Secretary to the State Government, Dr. Taiwo Fasoranti; Chief of Staff, Prince Segun Omojuwa; House of Representatives member representing Akure North/Akure South, Hon. Derin Adesida; Akure South Local Government Chairman, Hon. Gbenga Fasua; State Executive Council members, and APC leaders.
Photo Credit: Peace O. Alade