PDP Members Defect to APC in Ikorodu Ahead of Council Elections
At least 5,000 members of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Ikorodu Local Government Area of Lagos State have defected to the All Progressives Congress (APC), strengthening the ruling party’s position ahead of the upcoming council elections.
The defectors were officially received on Friday at the APC secretariat in Ikorodu by the party’s local government chairman, Waheed Animashaun, who assured them of equal treatment and full integration into the party structure.
Addressing the new members, Animashaun emphasized the importance of their Permanent Voters Cards (PVCs) in shaping the political landscape, urging them to attend ward meetings for recognition and participation in party activities.
“Our doors are always open to defectors from opposition parties in Ikorodu, and we assure you of equal rights, whether old or new members,” he stated.
He described the mass defection as a testament to APC’s growing acceptance in Ikorodu and a strong indication of victory in the forthcoming local government elections.
Defectors Cite APC’s Performance as Reason for Switching Sides
Leading the defectors, Mr. Olugbenga Shittu, who contested for Ikorodu Federal House of Representatives on the PDP platform in 2023, said the decision was collectively made by his supporters after evaluating APC’s achievements at the local and national levels.
“We have seen the developments and progress under the APC-led administration, and we believe it is the right time to join the party that is making an impact,” Shittu stated.
He expressed appreciation to the APC leadership for warmly welcoming him and his supporters, pledging their commitment to the party’s success.
APC Leaders Welcome Defectors, Urge Voter Mobilization
In his remarks, former Deputy Governor of Lagos State, Abiodun Ogunleye, urged the new members to obtain their APC membership cards and actively participate in the upcoming council elections.
“The PVC is your power. Come out en masse and vote for a landslide victory in the council elections,” he urged.
Ogunleye also called on party members to support President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, emphasizing its role in improving citizens’ welfare and driving Nigeria’s economic growth.
The Chairman of Ikorodu Local Government, Wasiu Adesina, reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to social welfare programs, announcing plans to provide free JAMB forms to interested youths and introduce a monthly stipend for 140 elderly persons in the area.
“We will continue to support our people. Parents should inform their wards about the free JAMB forms,” Adesina stated.
He further directed ward chairmen to compile and submit names of members aged 70 and above to benefit from the planned stipends.
The event underscored APC’s growing dominance in Lagos politics, as more opposition members continue to align with the ruling party.
