Oyo State House of Assembly hopeful, Hon. Saliu Sarafadeen Ayinde, also known as Sassay, has attracted hundreds of members from the APC and SDP to the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Irepo Local Government Area.
This mass defection, part of his ongoing familiarization and engagement tour, underscores his determination to transform the area and solidify PDP’s presence ahead of the 2027 general election.
The defection took place on Wednesday at LA Primary School Atipa during a PDP general meeting, and drew a large crowd of party faithful, political stakeholders, and residents.
The defectors were warmly received by the newly elected PDP Chairman, Kazeem Adekunle Olawoyin who described the event as a strong indication of the PDP’s deepening influence and enduring connection with the grassroots.
He commended the defectors for their decision, praising Hon. Sassay’s leadership as the driving force behind their move.
He assured them of a warm welcome and full integration into the PDP, emphasizing the party’s commitment to collaboration and delivering development and good governance to the people.
The PDP chairman however attributed the successful defection to the growing confidence in Governor Seyi Makinde and his Deputy, Barr. Abdul-Raheem Adebayo Lawal’s leadership, saying it was a testament to their impact and dedication to advancing Oyo State and the local government.
Hon. Sassay, who is currently the House Leader of Councillors in Irepo Local Government, is widely regarded as a remarkable and visionary leader, loved and accepted across the local government area.
His humanitarian work and support for party members have made him a strong asset to the party, with many seeing him as a compelling candidate for the House of Assembly ticket.”
According to a resident of Irepo Local Government, Iyeru, Hon. Sassay’s vision for the council and party is crystal clear and impactful.
He highlighted Sassay’s contributions and empowerment programs that have greatly benefited Kishi residents, commending him for his people-oriented approach, support for the youth, and distinctive leadership style.
Some of the defectors told MOUTHPIECE NGR that their decision to join the party was largely influenced by Hon. Sassay’s exceptional leadership and the impressive performance of Governor Seyi Makinde and his Deputy.
They described Sassay as a strong candidate who has consistently demonstrated his commitment to the people, particularly through his humanitarian work, and expressed confidence in his ability to win elections for PDP given the widespread support he’s garnered across Irepo, especially among the youth.
However, confirming the development, Hon. Sassay stated that he will continue to rally support for the PDP and advocate for Governor Seyi Makinde’s administration and the effective leadership of his Deputy, Barr. Abdul-Raheem Adebayo Lawal, particularly in the development of Kishi community and Oke-Ogun zone.
He emphasized that his motivation stems from a desire to positively impact the majority of the people, rather than material gain, and pledged to further popularize the PDP in Irepo Local Government Area ahead of the 2027 election.
The defectors to the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) included notable groups and individuals from various wards, such as residents of Sooro, Ayekale, Hausa Youths from Kraa, Okada Riders, and others.
Prominent defectors included Alhaji Muta Baba Onilu and his followers (Ward 04), Nah Star and Tigana’s group (Wards 09 and 04), Mrs. Nusirat Ayewo’s group (Ward 09), and several community groups and assemblies from different areas, including Kishi Democracy Empathy led by Mr. Jamiu Muritala.
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