Chieftains of the Social Democratic Party (SDP) in Ondo State have switched allegiance to the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), just months ahead of the governorship election scheduled for November 16.
At a formal event held in Ondo town, the headquarters of Ondo West Local Government, Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa, through the Secretary to the State Government, Mr. Tayo Oluwatuyi, warmly welcomed the defectors. He urged APC members to embrace the newcomers without prejudice, stressing that politics is about unity and numbers. “They have made the right choice joining us,” Aiyedatiwa noted. “Let’s support them—politics thrives on inclusivity, and we need their ideas.”
Leading the group of defectors, Mr. Azeez Ademoloye, a former SDP House of Assembly candidate, said they joined APC because it is the only party capable of winning the forthcoming election and driving progress in Ondo State. “I believe in the vision of APC, and my supporters and I are ready to contribute positively to the party,” Ademoloye stated.
In response, Mr. Abiola Makinde, the House of Representatives member for Ondo West/Ondo East, expressed excitement over the defections, emphasizing that the APC’s growing strength demonstrated its deep-rooted influence in the state. Makinde added that leaders like Ademoloye, a successful entrepreneur, bring valuable experience that will inspire the youth and help the party reach its goals.