A former aspirant in the last local government election in Atiba Local Government Area of Oyo State, Hon. Adedeji Olasunkanmi has officially defected from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to the All Progressives Congress (APC), citing prolonged dissatisfaction with the party’s handling of its aspirants.
Hon. Olasunkanmi, who contested from Ward 05 during the previous council polls, disclosed that his decision followed what he described as “long-time patience” and unaddressed grievances within the PDP structure.
He alleged that the party failed to acknowledge or compensate aspirants who invested resources and effort during the election process.
According to him, the lack of recognition and absence of any form of reimbursement for campaign expenses contributed significantly to his decision to exit the party.
He noted that such neglect has discouraged committed members and weakened internal morale among grassroots politicians.
The former aspirant (Hon. Olasunkanmi) expressed disappointment that, despite repeated expectations, the party leadership neither initiated engagement with affected aspirants nor demonstrated commitment to addressing their concerns after the elections.
While announcing his defection, Hon. Olasunkanmi maintained that his move to the APC was driven by the need to align with a political platform he believes offers better inclusion, recognition, and opportunities for active participation.
He, however, extended goodwill to members of his former party, appreciating friends, associates, and leaders he worked with during his time in the PDP.
He emphasized that his decision was not borne out of hostility but rather a strategic step toward advancing his political aspirations.
“I wish all my friends, associates, and party leaders well,” Hon. Olasunkanmi stated, adding that he remains hopeful that the collective efforts invested in political service would yield meaningful outcomes.
Hon. Olasunkanmi further prayed that the sacrifices and labour of party faithful across political divides would not be in vain, urging politicians to prioritize fairness, equity, and recognition in party administration.
His defection adds to the growing list of political realignments at the grassroots level in Oyo State as well as ATIBA LOCAL GOVERNMENT, as stakeholders continue to reposition ahead of future electoral engagements.
