TheCable

About 1,000 members of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), loyal to Buruji Kashamu, have defected to the All Progressives Congress (APC).

Kashamu, former senator representing Ogun east, had contested the March 16 governorship election in the state.

The defectors reportedly said they took the decision in a show of solidarity with Dapo Abiodun, governor of the state.

They were received by Tunji Egbetokun, the senior special adviser on political matters to the governor, in Abeokuta, the state capital.

Egbetokun, who stood in for the governor, said the defectors made the right choice by joining “the progressives.”

He assured them that the party would ensure fairness, equity and justice for all its members at all times, irrespective of how long they have been members.

He promised that the Abiodun-led administration would not disappoint members by “formulating and executing policies and programmes that would have positive impacts on the socio-economic well-being of the people”.

“Our party is open to all, even members of other parties. You have come at the right time, ” he said.

“In our party, we do not discriminate; rather, we give due recognition to all members, irrespective of how long they have been members or their social standing.”

He urged the new members to ensure that more people join the party, adding that the administration would not stifle the opposition, as “competition becomes sweeter when there are opponents.”

Ayo Olubori, the state secretary of the party, commended the defectors on their desire to “build the state with the governor”.

Bisi Adeleye, consultant to the governor on political matters, said the party is open to accommodating people from other parties.