A significant number of Peoples Democratic Party members from Alapa/Onire/Odegiwa Ward in Kwara State's Asa Local Government Area have defected to the All Progressives Congress. The defection was announced during a ward meeting attended by prominent party executives and supporters. According to reports, the defectors cited mistreatment of members, imposition of candidates, and poor reward for loyalty as reasons for their decision to leave the PDP.
The defectors expressed their attraction to the APC due to its visible achievements and opportunities for members, particularly youths. The chairman of the Lower Niger River Basin Development Authority, Abdullateef Alakawa, welcomed the new members, assuring them of equal treatment and a sense of belonging within the party. Alakawa emphasized that everyone in the APC is considered equal, working towards a common goal.
Alakawa commended Kwara State Governor, AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, for his performance in Asa Local Government Area. He urged the new members to remain committed to the party and contribute to its growth at the grassroots level. The governor's efforts in the area were acknowledged as a significant factor in the defection, with Alakawa encouraging the new members to support and vote for him in the forthcoming Kwara Central Senatorial District election.
The lawmaker representing the area, Shittu Motunrayo, also welcomed the defectors into the APC. He urged them to work with existing members for the development of the party. The reception highlights the APC's efforts to expand its grassroots structure in the local government, as more members of the opposition party continue to announce their defection to the ruling party.
This latest defection comes ahead of the 2027 general elections and adds to the ongoing political realignment in Kwara State. The major political parties are intensifying efforts to consolidate their grassroots support, with the APC making significant strides in expanding its base. The defection underscores the shifting dynamics in the state's political landscape.
The PDP in Kwara State is led by former Senate President, Dr Bukola Saraki. The party has faced challenges in recent times, including the loss of key members to the APC. The defection of over 1,500 members is a significant blow to the PDP, highlighting the need for the party to reassess its strategies and address the concerns of its members.
The APC's continued efforts to attract members from the opposition party demonstrate its confidence in its grassroots support. With the 2027 general elections approaching, the party is likely to focus on consolidating its gains and expanding its reach in Kwara State. The defection of PDP members to the APC is a significant development in the state's politics, with implications for the future of both parties.
Key points
- Over 1,500 PDP members defect to APC in Kwara State.
- Defectors cite mistreatment and poor reward for loyalty as reasons for leaving PDP.
- APC welcomes new members, assuring them of equal treatment and opportunities.
