ABEOKUTA– A former governorship aspirant under the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Ogun state, Hon. Adekunle Akinlade popularly known as ‘Triple A’ has decamped to the People’s Democratic Party (PDP).
Akinlade, who is a political godson of former governor of the state, Sen. Ibikunle Amosun dumped the ruling APC, citing injustice from the primary elections that produced Prince Dapo Abiodun as the party flagbearer.
He however stated that his movement to the opposition party may not be a popular decision, adding that it was absolutely necessary for the growth and development of the state.
“Mr Chairman, I must confess that this decision is not an easy one. I want you to know that it might not be the popular decision to take but I believe it’s absolutely necessary.
“The way we find ourselves in Ogun State, the next administration in the state means that every sensible indigene of this state must be able to make sacrifice, must be ready to do whatever it takes to change the course of the governance in Ogun State come 2023.
“In 2019, I was the Governorship candidate of this State under APM, and my brother of this great Party PDP stood by me and it reflected in the result of that election.
“We all know what happened, but Alhamdulillah we are here today. Today I am here not only to reciprocate but to say a big thank you for the confidence you gave me in 2019 and to assure you mr chairman and my principal, we will do everything we can, to make sure that this party becomes victorious come 2023.
“We will work morning and afternoon, we have done it before under 90days, now we have seven months to do this. Like I said, this wasn’t an easy decision but for the development of Ogun State, for the progression of what is happening, things are falling apart, the state is failing, people are been killed, cultism has taken over, i believe without any doubt that under the leadership of my principal, Hon Ladi Adebutu will restore peace back to the state, the economy of our state will be rebuild inshallah.
“I assure you my full loyalty that I will stand by you. As the Debuty Governor, I’ll serve this state and I will serve you and support you to make sure you succeed”, he added
While welcoming the decampee to the party, the PDP state chairman, Hon. Sikirulai Ogundele assured that the party will not segregates among the new intakes and old members, saying that the party is big enough to accommodate everyone.
“The coming of these great son of the state to our party further shows that the PDP is a big umbrella, capable of accomodating everyone who has the interest of the state at heart”, Ogundele added
Meanwhile, the party gubernatorial candidate, Hon. Ladi Adebutu in nostalgia lauded the role Akinlade played in the run off to the 2019 general elections, saying that “it’s one good turn deserves another”.
The party, having presented the party insignia, thereafter announced Hon. Adekunle Akinlade as the party gubernatorial running mate for the 2023 general elections.
