In a significant political development ahead of the forthcoming local government elections in Osun State, the Managing Director of the National Inland Waterways Authority (NIWA), Bola Oyebamiji, has received over five hundred defectors from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) into the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Ikire, Irewole Local Government Area.
This mass defection, which occurred on Nigeria’s Independence Day, marks a pivotal moment for the APC as it gears up for electoral battles in the state.
PLATFORM TIMES reports that the defectors, predominantly from Ward 8 of the local government area, were received during an event organized by Engr. Adekunle Kazeem Fadiran to commemorate the nation’s independence and distribute relief packages under the “Ileri Oluwa” initiative.
A statement issued and signed by
Chairman, APC, Ikire,Arimiyahu Owoade stated that Oyebamiji while at the event expressed profound gratitude for what he described as the best Independence Day gift the APC could receive, highlighting the symbolic nature of their defection on such an auspicious day.
Accompanied by Engr. Fadiran and other APC leaders, Oyebamiji emphasized the party’s growing appeal in Osun State, attributing it to dissatisfaction with the current administration under Governor Ademola Adeleke.
“Ikire is an APC stronghold,” declared Oyebamiji, underscoring the local party’s momentum bolstered by initiatives like Fadiran’s empowerment programmes.
Encouraging the new APC members to mobilize further support, Oyebamiji urged them to collaborate with existing party faithful to secure victories in upcoming elections.
He emphasized the importance of these efforts in attracting developmental projects to the council area, highlighting the APC’s commitment to improving local infrastructure and services.
In a separate gesture during the event, House of Representatives aspirant Engr. Kazeem Fadiran distributed relief funds and food packs to over 400 constituents from Ayedaade/Irewole/Isokan federal constituency.
Fadiran, who is registered with the Council for the Regulation of Engineering in Nigeria (COREN), reiterated his dedication to supporting the less privileged across Ikire, Apomu, and Ikoyi.
“This is my humble contribution to the residents of my constituency,” Fadiran stated, pledging ongoing support for community welfare initiatives.
His efforts were well-received, with constituents expressing gratitude for his consistent outreach and assistance.
Former PDP leaders from Ward 8, including Aderogbin Wakeel, Abeeb Sheriff, Jimoh Nuru, Waidi Elubo, Fathi Adekunle, and Adeleke Kaosara, voiced their reasons for joining the APC.
They cited the party’s commitment to delivering democratic dividends and recognized Oyebamiji’s leadership as instrumental in their decision.
The event also received the royal blessing of the Akire of Ikire, HRM Olatunde Falabi, who commended Fadiran for his contributions to the development of Ikire town.
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