Ogun Assembly Minority Leader Defects to Ruling APC, Praises Tinubu and Abiodun
In a significant political development in Ogun State, the minority leader of the State House of Assembly, Lukman Adeleye, has officially defected to the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC). Adeleye attributed his decision to join the APC primarily to the impressive performance of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and the exceptional magnanimity demonstrated by Governor Dapo Abiodun.
Governor's Inclusive Approach Cited as Key Factor
Adeleye made his declaration at the APC secretariat in Odogbolu, where he formally announced his ambition to run on the party's platform for a return to the House of Assembly. The lawmaker revealed that despite serving in the opposition, Governor Abiodun never discriminated against him or his colleagues in the legislative house.
"The governor has always kept his doors wide open for everyone, regardless of party differences," Adeleye stated. "This inclusive approach is quite different from what we hear from colleagues in other states, where opposition members often face exclusion."
Commitment to Party Principles and Constituency Development
The lawmaker expressed his delight at being part of the state's achievements under the current administration, noting that he and his colleagues have consistently supported initiatives that benefit the people of Ogun State. Adeleye emphasized that his move to the APC is driven by a desire to advance the party's interests and contribute to its growth.
Earlier, Adeleye had met with APC elders led by Kalejaiye at Ikoto-Ijebu in Odogbolu Local Council, as well as ward leaders at Ogbo Agamegi, to formalize his defection. During these meetings, he pledged his full commitment to the party's principles and structure.
"We are ready to submit ourselves to the norms and dictates of the party," Adeleye declared. "Whatever the elders decide is what we will follow. The interest of the Odogbolu state constituency remains our top priority. We are prepared to align with the center to bring the dividends of democracy to our people."
Warm Reception from APC Leadership
The defection received positive responses from APC leadership at various levels. Yekini Rasheed, the APC Ward 9 Chairman in Ibefun, described Adeleye as "a good child who has come to join the party" and urged elders to welcome him wholeheartedly.
In his response, elder Kalejaiye offered prayers for President Tinubu and Governor Abiodun before formally accepting Adeleye into the party fold. "On behalf of the APC elders and youth, we accept our son, Adeleye, into our party with love," Kalejaiye announced, signaling a unified welcome for the defecting lawmaker.
This political realignment comes as Adeleye prepares to contest for re-election to the Ogun State House of Assembly, now under the banner of the ruling party he once opposed. His defection underscores the continuing political shifts in Nigeria's state legislatures and highlights the appeal of the APC's current leadership at both federal and state levels.
