Ondo APC Members Defect to SDP Ahead of Governorship Election

In a significant political development in Ondo State, several members of the All Progressives Congress (APC) have defected to the Social Democratic Party (SDP) in anticipation of the upcoming governorship election on 16 November.

The defection, which took place at a rally held at the SDP secretariat in Akure, saw the former APC members formally switching their allegiance by relinquishing their APC membership cards and collecting those of the SDP.

The defectors, led by Femi Ikoyi, cited dissatisfaction with their treatment within the APC as the primary reason for their departure.

Ikoyi, who is a prominent figure within the People’s Democratic Movement (PDM) faction of the APC in Ondo State, expressed frustration over what he described as unfair treatment at the hands of the APC leadership at the local level.

According to him, the group’s grievances had been ignored, prompting their decision to seek a more accommodating political environment within the SDP.

“We were a strong force within the APC, known as the People’s Democratic Movement (PDM), but we were not treated fairly,” Ikoyi stated. “Our voices were sidelined, and our concerns were not addressed.

This move to the SDP is not just about changing parties; it’s about finding a platform where our efforts will be valued and where we can truly contribute to the success of our state.”

Ikoyi further revealed that the SDP’s candidate, Otunba Bamidele Akingboye, has garnered significant support from both former APC and People’s Democratic Party (PDP) members who are eager to join forces in ensuring his victory in the forthcoming election.

He suggested that Akingboye is favoured by influential figures in Abuja, which he believes positions him as a strong contender in the race.

“We know the SDP candidate is the favourite of Abuja, and we are determined to secure victory for him,” Ikoyi said.

“Our decision to move to the SDP is rooted in our commitment to supporting a candidate who we believe has the best interests of Ondo State at heart.

The APC has failed to support us at the local level, and this is our way of making sure that our voices are heard and our contributions recognised.”

The defection of these APC members to the SDP marks a strategic shift in the political landscape of Ondo State, particularly as the election approaches.

The influx of experienced political operatives from both the APC and PDP into the SDP is expected to bolster the party’s campaign and enhance its prospects at the polls.

Ikoyi emphasised that this realignment is part of a broader strategy to unite various political factions under the SDP banner, with the shared goal of advancing Akingboye’s candidacy.

In response to the defections, Gbenga Akinbunmi, the Chairman of Ondo SDP, welcomed the new members and assured them of equal treatment within the party.

Akinbunmi emphasised that the SDP values inclusivity and is committed to providing a level playing field for all its members, regardless of their previous political affiliations.

“We are delighted to receive these new members into our fold,” Akinbunmi said.

“The SDP is a party that stands for inclusiveness and fairness, and we are committed to ensuring that every member has a voice and a role to play in our journey towards a better Ondo State.”

The SDP governorship candidate, Otunba Bamidele Akingboye, also addressed the defectors, expressing gratitude for their support and pledging to pursue inclusive governance if elected as governor.

Akingboye promised to listen to the concerns of all stakeholders and work collaboratively to address the challenges facing the state.

“I am honoured to welcome you all to the SDP,” Akingboye said. “Your support is invaluable, and together, we can achieve great things for Ondo State.

My commitment to you is to lead a government that listens, that engages, and that is truly representative of the people’s interests.”

As the November 16 election draws near, the defection of APC members to the SDP is likely to have a significant impact on the political dynamics in Ondo State.

With the SDP gaining momentum and attracting key political players, the stage is set for a competitive race that could reshape the state’s political landscape.

The move underscores the fluidity of party loyalties in Nigerian politics and highlights the ongoing efforts by various factions to realign themselves in pursuit of electoral success.