Preparations for the 2027 general elections gathered momentum in Kwara State on Wednesday as the Irepodun Local Government chapter of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) formally received a large number of defectors from the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) into its fold.
The receiving ceremony, held in Omu-Aran, Irepodun Local Government Area, brought together key PDP leaders, community figures, and party loyalists to welcome the new entrants.
Addressing the gathering during his opening remarks, the Irepodun Local Government PDP Chairman, Oluwole Adeyeye expressed confidence in the party’s growing popularity and its chances in the upcoming 2027 polls.
He noted that the continuous influx of members from the ruling party reflects increasing public support for the PDP across the state.
Adeyeye charged existing members to embrace the new decampees and integrate them fully into the party structure.
“As we move forward as a party, let us continue to welcome them and show them the true meaning of humanity and politics. We should ensure that their decision to join us does not become a regret,” Adeyeye said.
Also speaking at the event, the Agba-Akin of Arandun, Chief Gbenga Awoyale urged both long-standing members and the new entrants to maintain internal cohesion and work collaboratively toward a decisive victory in 2027. He advised the defectors to remain steadfast and immediately engage residents across various wards and communities as political mobilization intensifies.
Formally admitting the defectors, the PDP House of Representatives candidate for the Irepodun/Ekiti/Oke-Ero/Isin Federal Constituency, Chief Joseph Gbenga Obanla, presented them with the party’s official flag and assured them of equal opportunities, fairness, and inclusion.
“I officially welcome you all to a party that knows the value of its members and rewards their commitment. As we welcome you today, we promise to do our best to ensure you are proud to be part of this party,” Obanla said.
On his part, Lawmaker representing Irepodun State Constituency in the Kwara State House of Assembly, Hon. Olushola Odetundun while welcoming the decampees described their defection as a bold demonstration of commitment to the growth and progress of the constituency.
Speaking on behalf of the decampees, Hon. Yemi Agboola noted that their decision to leave the APC stemmed from dissatisfaction with the ruling party’s leadership structure and lack of tangible benefits for constituents.
“Though we were part of the ruling party before now, we haven’t been able to benefit anything tangible from the APC as a party,” Agboola stated.
“We are rest assured that now that we’re back home, we won’t have any cause for alarm as PDP is known for rewarding loyalty and commitment.” He added.
He further criticized the APC govt for lacking focused leadership and internal coordination.
The event was attended by prominent PDP chieftains and community leaders, including High Chief Oluode Oyunloye, Chief Gbenga Awoyale, the Convener of Orisun Igbomina, Hon. Bello Afolayan, and the Oluomo of Aranorin, among others.
