A former chairmanship candidate of the Action Democratic Party (ADP) in Abeokuta South Local Government, Chief Olalekan A. Shoyinka, popularly known as Ayinla Egba, has officially withdrawn his membership from the party and announced the formation of a new political platform.
Shoyinka, in a statement personally signed and made available to PLATFORM TIMES on Tuesday, attributed the move to what he described as a misalignment between his political ideology and the current direction of the ADP.
The grassroots politician said the decision followed wide consultations with political stakeholders, supporters, and community leaders across the 15 wards of the local government.
“In view of recent developments and after thorough consultations with my inner circle and respected voices across Abeokuta South, I and members of the Ayinla Egba Movement have formally withdrawn our membership from the Action Democratic Party,” Shoyinka stated.
He stressed that the decision has been formally communicated to the leadership of the ADP, adding that his team expects the party to accept the move in good faith.
Shoyinka, who contested in the last local government election under the ADP, expressed gratitude to his supporters and the people of Egbaland for their continuous encouragement throughout his political journey.
He also acknowledged the complex political terrain, noting the existence of both principle-driven and inducement-based loyalties. “I respect the diverse opinions in our political space, even though our movement has chosen a different path,” he added.
Unveiling a new political vehicle, Shoyinka announced the transformation of his former structure into a new grassroots-oriented platform, the United Premier Movement (UPM).
According to him, the UPM will focus on integrity, community development, and long-term solutions to the challenges facing residents of Abeokuta South.
“We are not desperate to form alliances for convenience or political survival,” he said. “Our focus is to build a principled movement that speaks to the hopes of our people. The UPM is open only to individuals who are committed to genuine progress, not personal gain.”
While he stopped short of announcing his next political affiliation, Shoyinka hinted that discussions were ongoing with like-minded leaders and institutions, and a formal declaration would be made at the appropriate time.
The statement ended with a call to action: “The change we desire must begin with us.”
Shoyinka, a prominent community leader from Gbadegesin, Ijemo in Egbaland, has been active in local politics and advocacy for grassroots development in Ogun State.
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