ACCORD Reaffirms Unity in Oyo, Welcomes Thousands of PDP Defectors
The Oyo State chapter of the ACCORD has reaffirmed its unity and organisational strength, while formally receiving thousands of defectors from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) across the state’s 33 local government areas.
The declaration was made during a statewide meeting of the party’s leadership held in Ibadan, where the State Executive Committee met with chairmen from all 33 local government areas to deliberate on developments within the party and strategies for its future.
This was contained in a statement jointly signed by the Oyo State Chairman of ACCORD, Prince Kolade Ojo, and the State Secretary, Hon. Olayinka Dairo.
Addressing the meeting, Prince Ojo described ACCORD as a well-structured political party with an established hierarchy that predates any individual aspirant and would continue to exist beyond any candidate or political movement.
He dismissed concerns over recent political developments, insisting that the party remained united and focused.
“ACCORD is a formidable political party, not just a structure for any aspirant to tinker with. Let Oriyomi and his likes do whatever they want on their own; we remain strong and united,” he said.
The state chairman commended the 33 local government chairmen for their loyalty and commitment to the party, describing them as genuine grassroots leaders who had continued to uphold the ideals of ACCORD.
“Our party chairmen at the local government level have demonstrated once again their faith and loyalty to ACCORD. We recognise and commend your steadfastness,” Ojo stated.
The meeting also witnessed the formal reception of thousands of PDP members who defected to ACCORD from the state’s 33 local government areas. The defectors were led by Alhaji Sulaiman Aleshinloye of Ibadan South-East Local Government, alongside Hon. Abass Ayobami and Hon. Folarin Olawale.
Speaking on behalf of the defectors, Aleshinloye said they joined ACCORD after leaving the PDP over what he described as irreconcilable differences. He pledged their unwavering support for the party ahead of future elections.
“We left the PDP as a result of irreconcilable differences. We are pleased to be in ACCORD to win the forthcoming general election and govern Oyo State. The past is behind us, and our word is our bond,” he said.
Among those who attended the meeting were the State Chairman, Prince Kolade Ojo; State Secretary, Hon. Olayinka Dairo; State Women Leader, Hon. Fatimat Adeola Lukman; State Treasurer, Hon. Nurudeen Okunola; State Auditor, Hon. (Dr.) Hamzat; Financial Secretary, Hon. Taiwo Jesugbemi; party ex-officio members, and other state executives.