PDP, ADC Supporters Defect To APC In Kogi

Leaders and supporters of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and African Democratic Congress (ADC) in Olle/Oke Offin Ward of Kogi State have in their numbers defected to the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC).

The defectors joined the APC on Tuesday at a ceremony held in the ancient town of Oke Offin, declaring their support for the administration of Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo and the party’s leadership in the state.

Speaking at the ceremony, a former PDP leader, Hon. Michael Olubiyo, said the leadership style of Governor Ododo attracted him and other defectors to the APC.

Olubiyo also commended the State Security Adviser, Commander Jerry Omodara (rtd), for what he described as his efforts to attract development and the dividends of democracy to the community.

He said the defectors joined the APC to contribute to the development of the ward and strengthen the party at the grassroots.

Another defector, Hon. Babatunde Yusuf, attributed his decision to leave the PDP to what he described as the failure of some leaders of the party to put the collective interest above personal interests.

Yusuf also cited the leadership qualities of his principal, Asiwaju Olatunji Olusoji, as a major factor behind his decision to join the APC and support Governor Ododo’s administration.

Responding, Omodara expressed delight over the growing strength of the APC in the state, saying the development demonstrated increasing support for the ruling party.

He said: “As far as the state is concerned, there is no opposition, as they have been on the side of the government.”

Omodara also expressed confidence that Kogi voters would support President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and Governor Ododo in future elections, citing what he described as the achievements of both administrations.

He said President Tinubu had “renewed the hope of Nigerians in governance” and called for continued support for his administration.

In their goodwill messages, former Speaker of the Kogi State House of Assembly, Prince Matthew Kolawole, and party chieftains, Alfred Bello and Nathaniel Ojo Taiwo, commended Omodara for his leadership and contributions to the community.

Earlier, the APC Chairman of Olle/Oke Offin Ward, Leke Amupitan, said the defection was a demonstration of unity and growing support for the APC in the ward.

Amupitan attributed the development to what he described as the performance of Governor Ododo, Omodara, the Commissioner for Education and the chairman of the local government.

He welcomed the new members into the APC, assuring them that the party remained open to more members willing to join its fold.