Ilorin
About 100 members and supporters of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) yesterday dumped the opposition party to join the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) in Agbonda, Ajase Ward II of Irepodun Local government area of Kwara state.
The APC state chapter, the secretary, Mr. Olabode Adekanye, received the defectors at the empowerment programme he organised for the people of Ajase Ward II tagged “ABS Ajase II Empowerment Scheme”.
Receiving the defectors, Adekanye said the defection of the former PDP members in the area was a testimony to the fact that the APC- led government in the state was performing and meeting the expectations of the electorate.
Urging the defectors not to entertain any fear,
The APC scribe, who urged the defectors not to entertain any fear of unfair treatment, assured them of equitable treatment given to all other members of the party.
Adekanye called on the defectors to be faithful to the ruling party and mobilise those “sitting on the fence” to join the mainstream politics in the state.
He restated the commitment of the APC government in the state to deliver on its promises to the people of the state.
“The defection of these former PDP members and supporters to the APC is a testimony that we are swelling in rank while the opposition is desolating. That is to tell you that all the criticisms against us is nothing but all geared towards painting us bad in the sight and mind of the people.
“Let me assure that you (defectors) will be treated equally like other members. We need your total support. Help us to mobilise those people that are still sitting on the fence to join the mainstream politics that we are.
“Be rest assured that you would be given equal right. So, don’t entertain any fear or feel intimidated because you are coming to our fold. We are party with focus and we operate open door policy that is why people come to identify with us”, Adekanye said.
Some of the defectors, who spoke at the ceremony, said they came into the APC because it was the only party that can protect their interests and added that they were neglected by the PDP.
Meanwhile, some of the materials distributed to the beneficiaries including six traditional rulers in the area include 45 knapsack sprayers, six sewing machines, six grinding machines and six multi-functional fans.
He said he gave out the empowerment materials to his constituents to compliment the efforts of the Senate President, Dr Bukola Saraki and the state governor, Alh Abdulfatah Ahmed in making life more comfortable for the people of the state.
