Politics

Former PDP Members Officially Join APC in Oriade South: Warm Reception by Hon. Ajimati and Councillors

Published by Tope Fakinlede on June 2nd, 2025.

Former PDP Members Officially Join APC in Oriade South: Warm Reception by Hon. Ajimati and Councillors

The Executive Chairman of Oriade South LCDA, Hon. Ajimati Oladeji, hosted grassroots Mobilizers of former PDP members who have officially defected to the All Progressives Congress (APC). The event took place at the Oriade South Secretariat in Ipetu Ijesa, today Monday 2nd of June, drawing local political leaders, councillors, and community members.

The meeting began with a warm welcome from Hon. Ajimati, followed by self-introductions and an opening prayer led by Mr. Olalusi Ajibola. All councillors from Oriade LCDA were present to witness the significant political development.

Hon. Ajimati commended the group for their decision, describing them as “an engine room of capable hands” who will contribute meaningfully to APC’s success in the upcoming elections. He emphasized the party’s openness and commitment to including all willing and dedicated members in its progress.

Speaking on behalf of the decampees, Ajibola Olalusi, a senior aide to Hon. Oluwole Oke, explained that the purpose of their visit was to officially introduce themselves and foster unity. He appealed to APC leaders to recognize and integrate the new members fully, highlighting their ongoing grassroots mobilization efforts. He also praised Tolu Oni for his role in resolving attackers that are against their move to APC.

Adeolu Oni, the APC ward representative and one of the decampees, expressed gratitude for the warm reception. He noted that the group is fully prepared to support APC and appreciated the support they received when they faced opposition from PDP. Oni praised the political ideology of Hon. Oluwole Oke, especially his focus on employment and empowerment. He stressed that APC is a party of progress and opportunity, in contrast to their previous party.

Gbenga Gureje (Senator), also among the new APC members, reaffirmed their loyalty and readiness to work tirelessly for the party’s success. He called on APC leaders to treat them as full members, deserving of trust and inclusion.

Mr. Sikiru Kamorudeen echoed this sentiment, assuring APC party leaders of their readiness and confirming that Hon. Oluwole Oke stands firmly with them. He added that many more supporters are on their way to join APC.

Hon. Rasaq, Ward 10 Councillor, applauded the decampees, calling them “credible and hardworking individuals” whose presence adds great value to the party. He encouraged them to intensify their mobilization efforts to ensure electoral success.

Ward 9 Councillor Hon. Kehinde Bakare (popularly known as Bebe) began his remarks with a victory song and promised that the new members would be fully included in governance.

Mr. Ikupolai Akinwale (Omoakin) reinforced this assurance, sharing examples of past decampees from SDP such as Achebe, Sagalo,Awotoye and co, who have been successfully integrated into party leadership structures. He commended Chairman Ajimati for being a reliable and inclusive leader.

Other speakers, including Alabi Sunday (Supply) and Matthew Aranse (Ijaya) emphasized the importance of active participation in local units and maintaining strong communication with remaining supporters. They expressed confidence that the inclusion of the new members would lead to victory for all APC candidates.

In his closing remarks, Hon. Ajimati reassured the decampees of equal rights and access to opportunities within the party. He emphasized that governance under his leadership will remain inclusive and benefit all active members. He also paid tribute to Hon. Oluwole Oke, calling him a dependable and visionary leader, and promised to involve the new members in future appointments and party structures under his capacity. “This is your home,” Ajimati concluded. “You are not strangers here. Together, we will move Oriade South forward.”