By Law Ibitoye
Former Chairman of Oye Local Government Area, Hon. Omotayo Olamide Ogundare, has formally resigned from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and joined the All Progressives Congress (APC), citing the impressive performance of Governor Biodun Abayomi Oyebanji and his desire to continue serving the people of Ekiti State.
Ogundare made his declaration on Sunday at Ward 11, Isan Ekiti, where hundreds of his supporters also defected from the PDP to the APC in what political observers described as a major boost for the ruling party in Oye Local Government Area.
The former council chairman said he decided to leave the PDP after extensive consultations with his family, political associates and supporters, stressing that he would not allow developments within the opposition party to hinder his commitment to public service.
In a resignation letter dated June 6, 2026, and addressed to the PDP Chairman of Isan/Ilafon/Ilemeso Ward, Ogundare formally ended his membership of the party after years of active participation and leadership.
Speaking shortly after receiving the APC symbol from the Oye Local Government APC Chairman, Hon. Samuel Ogunsakin, Ogundare praised Governor Oyebanji’s administration for what he described as remarkable achievements in infrastructure, healthcare, education, agriculture, youth empowerment, security and social welfare.
According to him, the governor’s inclusive leadership style and developmental strides have earned him widespread support across political divides in the state.
“I have carefully assessed the current political realities in Ekiti State and concluded that Governor Biodun Oyebanji deserves the support of all well-meaning Ekiti citizens. His administration has brought visible development to our communities and has remained committed to the welfare of the people,” he said.
Ogundare also pledged his loyalty to the APC and promised to work diligently for the re-election of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu in the 2027 general elections.
While acknowledging the economic difficulties currently being experienced by Nigerians, he expressed confidence that the policies and reforms being implemented by the Tinubu administration would ultimately yield positive results.
“President Tinubu’s policies require patience and understanding. Though the reforms may be challenging at the moment, they are necessary steps towards rebuilding the nation’s economy and securing a better future for all Nigerians,” he stated.
Welcoming the defectors into the APC, Hon. Samuel Ogunsakin urged Ogundare to deploy his vast political experience and grassroots influence toward strengthening the party and advancing its fortunes in Oye Local Government and beyond.
Ogundare thanked PDP leaders and members for the opportunities he enjoyed while in the party, including serving as Pioneer Special Adviser on Due Process, former PDP Caretaker Chairman and former Executive Chairman of Oye Local Government Area.
Among dignitaries present at the event were Ward 11 Chairman, Chief Jide Ogundan; APC Local Government Secretary, Mr Kehinde Ajayi; the incoming Chairman of Ifesowapo LCDA and current LCDA Secretary, Hon. Adegoke Adetoloye; Ward Women Leader, Mrs Olaleye; Youth Leader, Mr Adedokun Oyeleye; former Special Advisers to the Governor, Hon. Apata Mufutau Afolabi and Hon. Fatai Adeyemo; former Council Chairman and immediate past State Organising Secretary of the PDP, Hon. Idowu Akinbode; former Oye Local Government supervisors, Hon. Femi Ogunlade and Hon. Mosele Oladiran; former member of the Ekiti State House of Assembly representing Oye Constituency I, Hon. Reuben Awoyemi; Secretary to Ayede LCDA, Hon. Adekunle Oladipo, , Hon Kola Ogundare , Former Secretary, Oye Local Government and several other party leaders and supporters