Oyo State House of Assembly hopeful, Hon. Saliu Sarafadeen Ayinde (Sassay), has attracted hundreds of members of the All Progressives Congress (APC) and the Social Democratic Party (SDP) to the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in the Irepo Local Government Area of Oyo State.
Speaking at the event, Hon. Ayinde said the defection was part of his ongoing familiarisation and engagement tour of his constituency, adding that he was determined to transform the area and solidify the PDP’s presence ahead of the 2027 general election.
The event, which took place during the PDP general meeting, drew a large crowd of party faithful, political stakeholders, and residents.
The defectors included groups and individuals from various wards, such as residents of Sooro, Ayekale, Hausa youths from Karaa, and commercial okada riders, among others.
Prominent among them were 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.
Receiving the defectors, the newly elected PDP chairman, Kazeem Adekunle Olawoyin, described the event as an 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, emphasising the party’s commitment to delivering development and good governance to the people.
The PDP chairman, however, attributed the 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.
A resident of the Irepo Local Government, Mr Iyeru, said that Hon. Sassay’s vision for the council and party was clear and impactful.
‘Hon. Sassay, who is currently the House Leader of Councillors in the 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 candidate for the House of Assembly ticket.’
He highlighted Sassay’s contributions and empowerment programmes 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 said 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 the PDP, given the widespread support he has garnered across Irepo, especially among the youth.