Defection Of PDP Lawmakers To APC, Endorsement Of Gov. Aiyedatiwa – Ondo APC

By Ayodele Oni

The All Progressives Congress, (APC), in Ondo State has responded to criticism from the Coalition of All Civil Society Organisations in the State (CACSOD) over recent defections to the party.

APC insists that the defection of People’s Democratic Party (PDP), Legislators in the State House of Assembly, to the ruling All Progressives Congress, (APC), is a testimony to the good works of Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa.

CACSOD had noted that with all 26 members of the Ondo State House of Assembly now belonging to the APC, the legislature has effectively become “a one-party chamber” incapable of providing the necessary checks and balances in governance.

A statement on Sunday by the APC Director, Media & Publicity, Steve Otaloro described the coalition assertion as misguided.

The statement maintained that “The decision of our new members to join the APC is a testament to the party’s commitment to delivering results and transforming lives.

“It is a validation of the pragmatic governance and pro-people policies of Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa and President Bola Ahmed Tinubu. These leaders have demonstrated a clear commitment to the development of Ondo State and Nigeria as a whole.

“We reject the notion that political movement is a betrayal of democratic values. In a competitive polity, elected representatives retain the right to choose the platform that best enables them to serve their constituents.

“To suggest otherwise is to stifle democracy and undermine the will of the people. Also, we take umbrage with CACSOD’s assertion that the absence of opposition equates to the death of democracy.

“This is a myopic view that fails to recognize that democracy thrives on performance, accountability, and the consent of the governed.

“If political actors and parties fail to offer credible leadership, coherent programmes, or measurable results, they forfeit the confidence of their members and supporters.

“We welcome our new members the House Minority Leader, Hon. Olajide Oguntodu, Akure South 1, and Hon. Oluwatoyin Daodu, from Akoko South West 1 and pledge to treat them with dignity and equity.

“They will be mentored, supported, and given the platform to aspire to any position for which they are suitably qualified. Our doors are open to talent, integrity, and dedication.

“We urge civil society and all well-meaning citizens to judge political developments by their substance and outcomes rather than alarmist rhetoric. The people of Ondo State deserve governance that works – practical, accountable, and results-oriented. The APC remains committed to providing exactly that.”