PDP Downplays APC Defections as Irrelevant Ahead of Ondo Governorship Election

People’s Democratic Party (PDP) has dismissed recent defections to the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) as insignificant, ahead of the crucial Ondo State governorship election on November 16, 2024.

In a statement reported by VANGUARD, PDP’s South-West Zonal Vice Chairman, Kamoru Ajisafe, downplayed the impact of high-profile defections during the inauguration of the party’s new caretaker committee in Akure, the capital of Ondo State.

Ajisafe shrugged off concerns about prominent members leaving the PDP, labeling these defections as “inconsequential.” He argued that the departure of these individuals has minimal effect on the party’s strategy and overall strength.

“Don’t be discouraged by the news of some big names or some people leaving your party to another. When we started in Osun State, many prominent figures deserted us,” Ajisafe remarked.

He asserted that the defectors had already been detached from the party’s core activities and that their exit was driven by their inability to control or influence the party’s operations.

Ajisafe also expressed confidence in the fairness of the upcoming election, dismissing fears of potential interference. He assured supporters that President Bola Tinubu would not engage in actions to disrupt the democratic process.

PDP’s governorship candidate, Hon. Agboola Ajayi, supported these claims in a separate interview, stressing the party’s readiness to secure victory in the election. Ajayi highlighted that, despite the defections, the PDP’s support base remains robust.

“When some people are leaving the party, more and more are still coming,” Ajayi asserted.

He criticized the APC’s presence in local government areas, noting a significant decline in support for the ruling party in regions such as Ese-Odo and Akoko.

Ajayi assured that the PDP would form the next government in Ondo State and pledged that former leaders who served the state would be recognized once the party assumes office.

This dismissal of defections reflects the PDP’s confidence in its ability to maintain its electoral strength and secure a win in the upcoming governorship election.