Exclusive: Suspended Offa Council Chairman, others formally join APC

The suspended Chairman of Offa Local Government Area, Alhaji Abdulateef Olaniran Gbadamosi, has officially joined the All Progressives Congress (APC).

The official defection comes after months of speculation that the 16 local government Chairmen, who are currently on suspension on the recommendation of the Kwara House of Assembly, were planning to leave the People's Democratic Party (PDP).

Gbadamosi, popularly known as Coach, made the declaration, along with members of his Council, Legislators and some Stakeholders of the PDP in Offa, on Sunday  during the Offa APC Stakeholders meeting held at the local government Pensioner's Secretariat.

He said, “I have officially joined the APC to advance  the development of Offa community and support the works of Governor Abdulrahman Abdulrazaq who is a man of his words."

“I, as always, remain committed to  sustainable development of our community and would key into any relationship that would enhance the development of our dear community." 

Gbadamosi cited many friendly gestures by the APC Stakeholders and other interactive sessions held with State Executives of the APC, which culminated in the official declaration at the local government level. He added that they would subsequently proceed to join the party at the ward level.

The decampees were received by the local government chairman of the APC, Mallam Abdulateef Afolayan, party chieftains including the State Publicity Secretay, Alhaji Tajudeen Folaranmi Aro; Chief J.A. Shogo, Hon Gbenga Yusuf, Alhaji Kola Olatinwo, Alhaji Manjeed Alabi, Alhaji G.G. Jaiyeola, Hon Jaare Olatundun, Hon Mutiat Taiye Omotosho, the entire local executive committee and many Stakeholders

Speaking further, Gbadamosi noted that Governor Abdulrazaq has demonstrated and shown that he is a leader rooted in democratic practices and  fairness, reason for their their resolve at the ALGON level to adopt the tag of " AA direct."

While responding, the Chairman of the LG Stakeholders, Chief Adebayo Shogo,assured the Chairman and others of full cooperation, noting that the party does not discriminate.

Receiving the decampees, the local government Chairman of the APC, Abdulateef Afolayan, commended the decampees for making the right decision at the right time, adding that the party would ensure fairness to all members.

Signed

Alhaji Tajudeen Folaranmi Aro

State Publicity Secretay

APC, Kwara State Chapter

Ilorin.