PDP leaders, members defect to APC in Ifedore LG

By Jimmysayo Adebiyi

Members of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Ijare Ward 2, Ifedore Local Government Area, Ondo State, led by former state Accountant General, Dr. Layiwola Lawrence Ibukun, have officially defected to the All Progressives Congress (APC) to bolster the ruling party in the state.

The defectors were warmly received by Ward 2 APC stakeholders at a meeting chaired by Engr. Tuyi Agboola.

Dr. Ibukun, who has held leadership positions in the PDP at both state and local government levels, attributed his decision to internal crises and irreconcilable differences within the PDP.

He explained that his move followed consultations with party members at all levels, including state and local government chairmen, community leaders, women leaders, youth leaders, ward secretaries, and ward PROs.

Many of these individuals, Ibukun said, joined him in defecting to the APC, which he described as a viable platform to better represent the interests of his constituents.

Dr. Ibukun pledged loyalty to the APC, describing his defection as “a product of deep personal reflection and wide consultations.”

The Ijare Ward 2 APC leader, Engr. Tuyi Agboola, welcomed the defection, calling it a “big fish inside the big ocean.”

He added that Dr. Ibukun “has demonstrated a clear understanding of the needs and aspirations of APC at both local government and state level.”

He expressed confidence that the former PDP leader and his executive team from state, local, and ward levels would bring about positive change in Ijare Ward 2, the wider Ifedore community, and the state at large.

Agboola noted that Ibukun’s leadership would inspire hope and renewal, saying many believe he is on the right path to transform the party with his experience in the PDP.

Hon. Olusola Owolanke described the defection as a plus for the APC and praised Dr. Ibukun’s leadership style as visionary and people-oriented.

He added that Ibukun’s commitment to the development of his people during his time in the PDP earned him respect and admiration.

Hon. Adedayo Ayodele, a special assistant to Governor Aiyedatiwa in the ward, said the party at all levels would emulate Dr. Ibukun’s operational style.

He noted that the defection, along with Ibukun’s followers, demonstrated the former PDP leader’s potential to contribute significantly to the APC’s growth.

He urged him to add more value to the party, assuring that there would be no discrimination between old and new members.

The councillor representing the ward, Hon. Oladapo Akingbola, commended Dr. Ibukun’s remarkable journey of service, saying his dedication has left an indelible mark on humanity.

He added that Ibukun’s tireless efforts to improve the lives of others had earned him widespread recognition and admiration.

Earlier, the Ijare Ward 2 chairman, Owoeye Moyin, said Dr. Ibukun’s professional expertise, philanthropic endeavors, and leadership in various causes have demonstrated an unwavering commitment to creating positive change.

He noted that Ibukun’s work in the PDP inspired many to follow him into the APC, reinforcing the ruling party’s strength in the area.