The Digest:
Six members of the House of Representatives from Osun State have formally defected from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to the Accord Party, marking a significant political realignment in the state's federal delegation. The declaration was made during a stakeholders' gathering in Osogbo on Monday, attended by party leaders, supporters, and government officials. Speaking on behalf of the group, Clement Akanni confirmed the defection of legislators representing key federal constituencies including Osogbo/Olorunda/Orolu/Irepodun, Ede North/Ede South/Egbedore/Ejigbo, and others. Governor Ademola Adeleke, who addressed the gathering, explained his earlier decision to leave the PDP was to "avoid being trapped" in his re-election bid, stating he was guided to the Accord Party after consultations and prayers. Former Deputy Speaker Lasun Yusuf also called on party faithful to remain dedicated ahead of the August 15 governorship election. Senator Lere Oyewumi remains the only federal lawmaker from Osun still on the PDP platform.
Key Points
- The defection of six federal lawmakers significantly strengthens Accord Party's political structure in Osun.
- Governor Adeleke's explanation frames his party switch as strategic self-preservation rather than ideological shift.
- The mass movement from PDP to Accord leaves the former ruling party with minimal federal representation in the state.
- The timing, ahead of August governorship polls, suggests consolidation of political forces for the election.
- Only one PDP federal lawmaker remains, highlighting the party's dramatic decline in Osun.
Sources: Daily Post
