In what has been described as a major political earthquake in Ibadan North federal Constituency, a powerful wave of defections has hit the All Progressives Congress (APC) as former councilors, their hundreds of followers and key grassroots politicians officially dumped the party for the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) ahead of the August 16 federal constituency bye-election.
Facilitating the defection is the current Chairman of the Oyo State Housing Corporation and Director-General of the PDP Campaign Council for the Ibadan North Federal Constituency, Hon. Demola Omotoso, who rallied his former political allies including councilors who served under his leadership as LG Chairman 21 years ago back into the PDP fold.
The defection, which took place during the Ibadan North PDP weekly meeting held at the party secretariat in Yemetu, was witnessed by party stakeholders, supporters, and a jubilant crowd of loyalists.
Describing the event as a “political homecoming of giants,” Hon. Omotoso expressed immense joy as he welcomed the returning political heavyweights, referring to them as “big fish who understand the political terrain of Ibadan North like the back of their hands.”
“These are seasoned politicians, men of value who served diligently when I was the chairman over two decades ago.
They played crucial roles in the success of that administration and I’m elated that they have chosen to return home to the most accommodating party in Africa the PDP,” Omotoso said.
He credited the leadership style of Governor Seyi Makinde as a major driving force behind the mass defection, saying the governor’s inclusive and performance-driven governance continues to inspire confidence across party lines.
Also speaking, Hon. Matthew Alani Oyeniyi, former House of Representative aspirant and ex-councilor representing Ward 12, hailed the defection as a divine orchestration.
He revealed that he was instrumental in rallying his colleagues back to the PDP, affirming that the decision reflects their shared belief in progressive politics.
“Today, I am happy beyond words that these my brothers, these my political allies, have shared in the same belief and confidence I have in Hon. Demola Omotoso’s leadership, and they have decided to join us once again in the PDP.”
“I welcome all of them warmly. This is our home.
We are not new here. We built this party, we know the strength of PDP, and we know what we can achieve together.
I promise that I will work hand in hand with every one of them for the growth, progress, and total development of this great party.”
On behalf of the defectors, Hon. Adebayo Salami, popularly known as Fire, from Ward 4, described APC as “a party of frustrations and zero accommodation.” He recounted his roles as a former councilor, organizing secretary, and personal assistant to Hon. Omotoso during the PDP era, declaring, “This is my home.
This is where politics is practiced with purpose.”
Another defector, Hon. Rasheed Oladoja of Ward 5, pledged loyalty to the PDP and vowed to contribute meaningfully to ensure victory for the party in the upcoming election.
In his remarks, Hon. Saheed Ademola of Ward 8 did not mince words as he slammed the APC for being
“a retrogressive platform where dirty politics thrives.
” He said, “In PDP, you find peace of mind, dignity, and opportunities to live a life of impact. I’m glad to be back.”
Other former councilors who defected include Hon. Laide Durodola from Ward 10 and Hon. Atiku from Ward 6, both of whom emphasized the need to align with a party that values loyalty and competence.
Hon. Paul from Ward 5, Hon. Saliu from Ward 12, and Labule from Ward 5 also joined the defection.
Speaking at the event, the Oyo State PDP Youth Leader and Acting Publicity Secretary, Hon. Michael Ogunsina, declared that the tide has clearly turned in favor of the PDP, and come August 16, Hon. Folajimi Oyekunle (DON), the PDP consensus candidate, shall be declared the winner of the Ibadan North Federal Constituency bye-election.
The Executive Chairman of Ibadan North Local Government, Hon. Oluwaseun Olufade, also addressed the gathering, praising the leadership of Governor Makinde and the growing unity within the PDP.
He boldly stated that more APC members will continue to defect before the August 16 election.
“This is just the beginning. PDP will sweep all 12 wards.
We are not just winning; we are making history,” Hon. Olufade said confidently.
With this mass defection, the PDP in Ibadan North has not only gained political strength but has sent a strong message to the opposition.
As August 16 approaches, the race for Ibadan North Federal Constituency is heating up, and the PDP appears to be solidifying its grip with every passing day.
