Soji Ajibola, Ibadan
Deputy Governor of Oyo State, Engr. Rauf Olaniyan, has concluded plans to dump the Peoples Democratic Party, (PDP) for the All Progressives Congress, (APC) over alleged marginalization by his boss, Governor Seyi Makinde.
Engr Olaniyan had prior to his decision to quit the party disclosed that he is always kept in the dark whenever it comes to the issue of governance in the state even as the Deputy Governor.
The Deputy Governor, as reliably informed, was not part of the selection team that the governor and the leadership of the PDP put in place to screen the prospective candidates for the political offices in 2023.
Engr. Olaniyan was alleged of romancing with the leadership of the APC in the state, most especially the family of the immediate past governor, Senator Isiaq Ajimobi.
Angered by this development, the Deputy Governor, according to reliable sources, has opened up discussion with the leadership of at least four political parties in the state.
However, Engr. Olaniyan is considering a move to the APC where he has reportedly been offered a Senatorial ticket for the Oyo North Senatorial District.
Confirming the development in an interview, the Vice Chairman of the All Progressives Congress, (APC) Hon. Joshua Oyebamiji said the Deputy governor would soon make his intention public.
He said the party has concluded an arrangement to welcome Olaniyan into his fold, thereby leaving Makinde as lone ranger in the PDP.
Makinde, according to him, is now left with a crowd without political relevance with the exit of notable leaders and chieftains of the PDP.
How can someone claim he has no political father? Can you become anything without a mentor. He has lost the goodwill that brought him to power. He is losing heavyweights daily.
People are leaving the PDP and they are coming into the APC on a daily basis. His Deputy is coming to join us very soon, I can confirm that to you. You will see it.
In his reaction, the State Chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party, (PDP), Elder Dayo Ogungbenro said he was not aware of the development.
I am not aware the Deputy Governor, who is one of our leaders, wants to leave the party. If it is true, we can only wish him well.
The Network gathered that the Deputy Governor had been holding meetings with the APC.