By Gbenga Sodeinde
The All Progressives Congress (APC) chances of winning the June 18 governorship election in Ekiti got a boost on Monday when no fewer than 57 members of the Peoples’ Democratic Party (PDP) dumped the party in Emure Local Government and declared for APC, with assurance to work for the victory of the APC candidate, Biodun Abayomi Oyebanji at the poll.
Speaking on behalf of the defectors, Mr. Oloro Mobolaji Johnson, from Ward 1, Emure, who addressed APC leaders in the ancient town, during the ‘thank you visit’ of the APC candidate, described PDP as a “one-man business” that has no plan for the generality of people of Ekiti State.
“Until now, we are the machineries being used by the one-man political businessman running the Ekiti PDP like a private estate. As patriotic Ekiti men and women, we have now realized that the future of Ekiti is not guaranteed in the hands of PDP and have decided to align with the progressives. Besides, our decision to dump PDP is as a result of our conviction that APC is well positioned to provide quality leadership for Ekiti.
“From now on, we will not only be in APC but will work assiduously to actualize the dream of Mr. Biodun Oyebanji, to become Governor of Ekiti State, come June 18.”
Receiving the new members, a former Chairman of the APC, Chief Jide Awe, said the development was heart-warming.
According to Awe, “This is just the beginning; many people will still come to this fold. While welcoming them on behalf of the leadership of the party, we assure them of fair treatment and cooperation.”
Earlier, the leader of the team and Chairman, Ekiti State Local Government Service Commission, Chief Alaba Bejide, urged APC members to make sure they validate their PVC before June 18 in order to be able to vote for Oyebanji.
“It is only when we have all successfully validated our PVCs and urge those of voting age to obtain their PVC that we can be sure of having a license to vote.” He said.