0
0
FORMER PDP WARD CHAIRMAN DEFECTS TO APC, RESHAPES LOCAL POLITICS IN AKURE NORTH
The political landscape of Akure North Local Government Area has witnessed a major shift following the defection of the former Chairman of the People’s Democratic Party PDP in Akure North Ward 10, Mr. Abiodun Abbey “Big Soul” Obantu, to the All Progressives Congress APC.
The move has sparked excitement among APC members across Ita-Ogbolu and nearby communities, with party leaders describing the defection as a significant boost to the party’s grassroots strength ahead of future elections.
Mr. Abbey Obantu is widely regarded as one of the most effective ward chairmen produced by the PDP in Akure North, with a long record of electoral success in his ward. He is one of only two PDP ward chairmen in the local government election who delivered electoral victories for the party at the last House of Assembly election.
During the councillorship and chairmanship election in 2017, Mr Abbey led his former party to victory in his ward in an election which produced Hon. Oniya Muyiwa as the Councillor for Ward 10, and Hon. Dele Babalola as the chairman of the Akure Northlocal government.
Also, in the 2019 general elections, Mr. Abbey Obantu campaigned for the PDP candidate for the House of Representatives seat, late Hon. Omolafe Adedayo, also known as Expensive, as well as the senator to represent the party’s interest in the Senate, Distinguished Senator Ayo Akinyelure, also known as Allover1. These elections were won by these two candidates.
His political influence was further demonstrated during the 2023 Ondo State House of Assembly election in Akure North, where he successfully delivered his ward for the PDP. Only two other ward chairmen, including that of the party’s House of Assembly aspirant, Hon. Moses E., achieved similar results.
Renowned for his grassroots mobilisation skills, Mr. Abbey Obantu enjoys widespread popularity in the area and is often described as a politician with deep community support and effective political strategy.
Speaking at the official reception to welcome him into the APC, party leaders described his defection as a turning point for the party in Akure North. They noted that his experience and deep understanding of grassroots politics would further strengthen the APC’s position in the local government.
One APC leader at the event said the party was pleased to receive Mr. Abbey Obantu, describing his move as both timely and courageous.
“We are delighted to welcome a man with proven credentials in grassroots electoral victories,” he said. “His decision to join the APC confirms that our party remains the platform of choice for individuals genuinely committed to development.”
Supporters at the event hailed the APC as a rising political force in Akure North and expressed optimism that more prominent politicians in the area would soon follow suit.
Observers note that the growing wave of defections from other parties signals the APC’s expanding influence in Akure North, potentially translating into increased public support and stronger electoral performance.
As Mr. Abbey Obantu embarks on this new chapter of his political career, his defection is widely seen as a reflection of shifting political alignments that could shape future elections in Ondo State.
About The Author
