Three coalition commissioners, SAs, 93 council appointees, others defect to PDP in Oyo

By Bode Akinbode, Ibadan 

As 2023 general elections approaches, all the three commissioners appointed into Oyo State’s cabinet on account of the 2019 political coalition that brought in Governor Seyi Makinde, have announced their defection to the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).

The commissioners, who were also joined by Special Advisers and 93 Special Assistants appointed into local government positions from the African Democratic Congress (ADC), said that their decision to pitch tent with the PDP was as a result of Governor Makinde’s fidelity to the promises made to the coalition.

While speaking on behalf of the other defecting members at a press conference, held in Ibadan, Commissioner for Information, Culture, and Tourism, Dr. Wasiu Olatunbosun, said that the governor has fulfilled all promises made to the ADC as a coalition party

He stated that the decision was aimed at ensuring the success of the governor’s second term aspiration. 

Olatunbosun, also explained that himself, the Commissioners for Energy, Seun Ashamu Agric, Adeniyi Adebisi, decided to join the PDP after much consultation with leaders of the ADC.

He said: “On behalf of the commissioners here…after much consultation with our leaders, we have decided to move to the ruling party, the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, because we believe that Governor Seyi Makinde has fulfilled his promises to our leaders.

“So, we believe we should do everything within our power to make sure we give him all the necessary support to win the second term in office. We were part of the success in 2019 and believe that if we join forces together with him, we will be able to succeed together.

“Also with me here are Special Adviser to the Governor on Budget and Economic Planning, Gbenga Oyetola, 93 appointees at the state level, and elected representatives at the local government level.

“So, that is why we have called this brief press conference.”