The political atmosphere in Osun State took a dramatic turn on Saturday, November 30, 2024, as the All Progressives Congress (APC) suffered a massive blow in Atakumosa East Local Government. Scores of its members, including prominent leaders, defected to the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).
The defectors, many of whom were high-ranking party officials and former government appointees, publicly pledged their allegiance to the PDP in a symbolic event that marked a major political shift in the area.
Leading the reception of the defectors was the Member representing Ijesha South Federal Constituency, Hon. Sanya Omirin, who is also the leader of the PDP in the local government.
Hon. Omirin warmly welcomed the defectors, describing their decision as timely and crucial to the collective efforts to support Governor Ademola Adeleke’s transformation agenda in Osun State.
In his remarks, Hon. Omirin assured the new members of equal treatment, stating that the PDP remains a party that values inclusivity and fairness.
“In the PDP, every member—new or old—is treated with equal privileges. There is no room for discrimination. We are one family, working towards the progress of Osun State,” he declared.
Among the notable defectors were Asiwaju Rasaq Oyelami, a former Local Government Secretary who served under Femi Kujembola, the incumbent APC Treasurer, and Hon. Kola Omoniyi, the former Secretary to Atakumosa East Local Government.
Their defection is seen as a major setback for the APC in the local government, as they were influential figures within the party’s structure.
Speaking on behalf of the defectors, Asiwaju Rasaq Oyelami expressed his dissatisfaction with the APC’s internal affairs, describing the party as plagued by unfulfilled promises and lack of direction.
He praised the PDP for its commitment to grassroots development and Governor Adeleke’s inclusive governance style.
