A group within the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, in Osun State has declared support for the All Progressives Congress, APC, governorship candidate, Bola Oyebamiji, ahead of Saturday’s election.

The group is led by former Governor of Osun State, Olagunsoye Oyinlola. The endorsement was made on Sunday in Osogbo.

Speaking at the event, Oyinlola said the group decided to support Oyebamiji because of what they described as “lack of inclusiveness” in the current PDP-led administration of Governor Ademola Adeleke.

He said, “One of the major issues that have created this unfortunate situation is the lack of inclusiveness in the governance of our dear state.”
Oyinlola added that the PDP was built on consultation and collective responsibility, and those values must be upheld.

He was joined by former SSG, Fatai Akinbade, and former PDP National Vice Chairman, Southwest, Tajudeen Oladipo.

Oyinlola stressed that the group is not leaving the PDP.
“Let me repeat that our decision today should not be interpreted as an abandonment of the PDP. We remain PDP members. We are not here to announce our defection,” he said.

He described their support for Oyebamiji as “a child of necessity, conviction and sincere desire to advance the cause of the state.”

The group urged Oyebamiji to focus on good governance, education, healthcare, agriculture, youth empowerment and running an inclusive government.
“You must put the people first and ensure that every part of Osun feels represented,” Oyinlola said.

Akinbade and Oladipo asked PDP members in the state to vote for Oyebamiji. They said the decision was for the good of the state, not for personal gain.

Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Adegboyega Oyetola, welcomed the endorsement. He described Oyinlola as a grassroots politician whose experience matters.

Oyebamiji thanked the group and promised to run an inclusive government if elected.
“I thank you for the confidence reposed in me. I will not disappoint you,” he said.

Efforts to get the reaction of Osun PDP Chairman, Sunday Bisi, were not successful as of press time.

Source: Punch Newspapers