1,500 PDP Members Join APC in Kwara

No fewer than 1,500 members of the Peoples Democratic Party in Alapa/Onire/Odegiwa Ward, Asa Local Government Area of Kwara State, have switched to the ruling All Progressives Congress.

The members made their decision known during a ward meeting on Sunday. This meeting had notable figures like Abdullateef Alakawa, who is the Chairman of the Lower Niger River Basin Development Authority, and Shittu Motunrayo, a member of the Kwara State House of Assembly, among other party executives and supporters.

The new APC members stated they left the PDP, which is led in the state by former Senate President Bukola Saraki. They cited mistreatment of members, imposition of candidates, and lack of rewards for loyalty as reasons for their departure.

They also mentioned the visible achievements of the APC and the opportunities it offers, especially for youths, as factors that attracted them to the party.

Alakawa welcomed the defectors to the APC. He assured them they would be treated like family in the party. He said, "Today, we are receiving no fewer than 1,500 members of the PDP from Alapa/Onire/Odegiwa Ward into the APC. Their decision to join us is a clear indication of their confidence in the APC and its programmes."

He continued, "There is no newcomer in the APC. Everyone is one, and we are all working towards a common goal. Those who perform well and occupy political positions are also leaders of the party."

Alakawa encouraged the new members to stay committed to the APC and help it grow at the grassroots level. He also praised the Kwara State Governor, AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, for his efforts in Asa Local Government Area.

"Governor AbdulRazaq has done well for the people of Asa, and the best way to reward his efforts is to support and vote for him in the forthcoming Kwara Central Senatorial District election," he stated.

Shittu, the lawmaker representing the area, joined other leaders in welcoming the defectors into the APC. He urged them to collaborate with existing members for the party's development.

The reception for the new members highlights the APC’s efforts to strengthen its grassroots presence in the local government. More members of the opposition party are announcing their defection to the ruling party.

This latest defection happens as the 2027 general elections approach. It adds to the political shifts taking place across Kwara State, with major political parties working hard to solidify their grassroots support.