Wave Of Defection! APC Welcomes Two PDP Members In Ondo State

Two Ondo Lawmakers Dump PDP for APC, Assembly Pushes for CONLESS Implementation

According to iReporter Online, political dynamics in the Ondo State House of Assembly took a new turn on Tuesday as two lawmakers, Felix Afe and Tope Agbulu, announced their defection from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to the All Progressives Congress (APC).

Afe, who represents Akoko North-West Constituency 2, and Agbulu, from Akoko South-West Constituency 2, formally declared their exit from the PDP in separate letters read on the floor of the House by the Clerk, Benjamin Jayeola. Both lawmakers cited internal crises and irreconcilable differences within the PDP as their reasons for leaving.

Afe stated that his decision came after “extensive consultations with constituents and political stakeholders,” adding that the APC would offer a more viable platform to deliver democratic dividends. Agbulu echoed similar sentiments, saying the APC aligns better with his political vision and aspirations for his people.

According to iReporter Online, their defection raises the APC’s strength in the 26-member Assembly to 24, leaving the PDP with just two lawmakers.

Meanwhile, the Assembly has called on Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa to implement the Consolidated Legislative Salary Structure (CONLESS) for legislative staff in the state. This follows a 21-day ultimatum issued by the Parliamentary Staff Association of Nigeria (PASAN), Ondo chapter, demanding the salary structure be effected without further delay.

Majority Leader Olatunji Oshati (Ose/APC) described the matter as one of “public importance,” noting that other South-West states have already implemented CONLESS. He urged the workers to exercise patience as the House engages the executive to resolve the issue.

Speaker Olamide Oladiji also weighed in, encouraging dialogue over protest, and commending the staff for their restraint. He reiterated the Assembly’s commitment to protecting workers’ welfare and ensuring that their demands are met.

According to iReporter Online, Oladiji stressed that implementing CONLESS would not only boost morale but also improve operational efficiency within the legislative arm of government.

”IREPORTER REPORTS”