●Receives Shina Peller into Party
Iseyin, Oyo State - In a show of confidence, Governor 'Seyi Makinde of Oyo State declared that the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in the state is stronger than ever and well-positioned to emerge victorious in the upcoming local government elections.
The governor highlighted his administration's people-oriented programs as the driving force behind their success. He expressed his conviction during an event in Iseyin where he welcomed Honourable Shina Abiola Peller, former member of the House of Representatives on the platform of the APC and senatorial candidate of the Accord Party in Oyo North Senatorial District, into the PDP.
Governor Makinde, represented by the Deputy Governor Barr. Abdulraheem Bayo Lawal, called on both new and existing party members to work together harmoniously to secure victory for the PDP candidates in the forthcoming local government polls. Honourable Peller and his followers defected to the PDP, citing Governor Makinde's people-oriented governance and the remarkable development witnessed across all zones in the state since the Makinde administration took office in 2019.
During the event, Governor Makinde urged PDP members, particularly those in Oke-Ogun and Ogbomoso, to embrace and support the defectors with open arms, stressing the need for unity within the party. He also highlighted the need for the PDP to emerge triumphant in all polling units during the local government elections.
Honourable Peller praised the developmental strides and visionary leadership of Governor Makinde as the key factors behind his and his followers' decision to join the PDP. He expressed unwavering support for the continuation of the dividends of democracy in Oke Ogun and the state at large through the governor. He commended Governor Makinde for his laudable projects and efforts in improving road infrastructure to connect all zones in the state.
In his welcome address, the Oyo State PDP Chairman, represented by Honourable James Olukunle, described the defection of Honourable Peller and his followers as a step in the right direction. He urged the new entrants to remain loyal and committed to the party. Notable party leaders including the PDP National Vice Chairman (South-West), Barrister Kamorudeen Ajisafe; Dr Saka Balogun, chairman of the Oyo State Elders Council; Chief Omokunmi Mustapha, former state chairman of the Oyo State PDP; and Chief Jacob Adetoro, also extended their warm welcome to the defectors and assured them of equal opportunities within the party.
The event was attended by prominent PDP chieftains, including Alhaji Wasiu Adeleke, the secretary of the Oyo State PDP; Barrister Adeniyi Farinto, Deputy Director-General of Governor Makinde's 2023 Campaign Organisation; and Honorable Adeniyi Adebisi, Commissioner for Establishment and Training, among others.