Former Kwara State House of Assembly member Saheed Popoola has officially defected from the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) to the opposition Peoples Democratic Party (PDP). The two-term legislator moved with his supporters in Offa Local Government Area on Sunday.
Abandoned Ideals Prompt Defection
Popoola, an APC pioneer since 2013, expressed disappointment with the party’s direction. “We initiated APC with visions of justice and prosperity,” he stated. “But the party lost its soul, prioritizing personal loyalty over public service.”
The former lawmaker emphasized his move reflected principle rather than desperation. “I join PDP believing in fairness and equity,” Popoola declared. “This opposition party remains Nigeria’s most viable political alternative.”
2027 Victory Prediction and Governance Critique
Popoola confidently projected PDP’s resurgence: “Our party will reclaim Kwara’s governance in 2027.” He linked recent security challenges to administrative failures. “Banditry emerged in Kwara for the first time since 1967 under this government.”
The ex-legislator, who helped lead the O to Ge movement that brought APC to power in 2019, lamented its legacy: “Governor Abdulrahman Abdulrazaq abandoned our struggle’s core values. Personal interests replaced collective purpose and inclusivity.”
PDP Reception and APC Response
State PDP chairman Hon. Issa Bawa welcomed Popoola’s return as a “homecoming” that strengthens their 2027 prospects. “Offa will rise again with PDP,” Bawa proclaimed, praising Popoola’s integrity.
APC officials dismissed the defection. Spokesperson Waheed Babatunde remarked: “Popoola’s presence wasn’t felt in our party. Offa remains firmly progressive and will back Governor Abdulrazaq’s reelection.”
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