Oyo politicians defect to ADC in major realignment

Oyo politicians defect to ADC as party chairman Yinka Olona vows internal democracy and support for new members ahead of 2027 politics

Some members of the Labour Party and other political parties in Oyo State on Wednesday defected to the African Democratic Congress during a political gathering in Ibadan South-West Local Government Area.

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The defectors were formally received by the Oyo State Chairman of the African Democratic Congress, Yinka Olona, at the unveiling of the party’s South Senatorial District structure held at the Foko area of Ibadan.

Addressing the gathering, Olona described the African Democratic Congress as the only political party in the country with a practicable system of internal democracy.

Yinka Olona assured the new members of equal opportunities and institutional support within the party.

Yinka Olona said the African Democratic Congress remained “the hope of the masses” amid what Yinka Olona described as the failure of other political parties to implement people-centred policies.

Yinka Olona criticised the culture of candidate imposition and godfatherism in rival parties, stating that the African Democratic Congress operates a clear set of rules for members aspiring to public office.

Yinka Olona said aspirants who comply with the laid-down principles and procedures of the party would not face any form of hindrance in contesting elective positions at the local, state or national levels.

Yinka Olona added that Nigerians were looking towards the African Democratic Congress for relief from rising poverty, insecurity and other social challenges confronting the country.

Yinka Olona also urged the new entrants to avoid thuggery and other practices that could undermine the party’s objectives as preparations gradually begin for the 2027 general elections.

Speaking on behalf of the defectors, former Labour Party member Aderibigbe Aderoju said the decision to join the African Democratic Congress was driven by what Aderibigbe Aderoju described as the party’s mass-oriented policies.

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The event marked a visible political shift in Oyo State as the African Democratic Congress continues efforts to expand its grassroots presence ahead of future electoral contests.

Quadri Olaitan