It was a moment of renewed strength for the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Abeokuta North Local Government as several notable members of the opposition parties officially joined the ruling party.
The defection, which took place on Wednesday at the Party Secretariat Ori-Omi under the leadership of the APC Chairman in the local government, Alhaja Faidat Sarumi Akintunde, witnessed the presence of key political figures from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and the African Democratic Congress (ADC) who pledged their loyalty to the progress and development of the APC.
Among the defectors were the State Chairman of ADC, Hon. Matemilola Adeleke, and Mr. Sulaiman Adeniji, a former Vice Chairman of Abeokuta North Local Government and respected political leader in the local government. Others included Hon. Ambali Adewusi, a former PDP Chairmanship candidate, Hon. Ahmodu Ejalonobu Taofiq, a former PDP Councillorship candidate from Ward 8, Hon. Biyi Akorede from Ward 11, Mr. Adigun Akeem from Ward 15, and Mr. Taiwo Ogunneye from Ward 8.
Speaking at the event, Alhaja Faidat Sarumi Akintunde expressed delight over the development, describing it as a sign of greater unity and progress for the APC in Abeokuta North.
She charged the ward chairmen to immediately integrate the new members into ward activities and ongoing voters’ registration exercises.
“The ward chairmen should start involving our new members in meetings and the ongoing voter registration. We must work together as one family to strengthen our party ahead of future elections,” she said.
On his part, Mr. Sulaiman Adeniji, who led the defectors, noted that their decision to join the APC was borne out of a desire to contribute meaningfully to the growth of the local government and ensure the success of the ruling party.
“The opposition party seems unserious about the progress of the people. We are ready to work harder to make sure APC continues to deliver and win subsequent elections,” Adeniji affirmed.
Also, the new members paid a courtesy visit to the Executive Chairman of Abeokuta North Local Government, Hon. (Dr.) Lanre Oyegbola-Sodipo, who warmly received them and promised inclusiveness in governance and party affairs.
“We will make sure everyone is carried along. APC is a progressive and open party, and we will continue to work together for the development of Abeokuta North,” the council boss assured.
Other APC leaders in attendance included the Vice Chairman of the party, Alhaji Abdul Ganiu Saba, and the Treasurer, Mr. Seun Akinpelu.
