The All Progressives Congress (APC) in Ekiti State received a major boost on Monday, as Governor Biodun Oyebanji welcomed Engr. Kemi Elebute-Halle, the former governorship candidate of the Action Democratic Party (ADP) in the 2022 election, into the ruling party. Elebute-Halle’s defection, along with hundreds of her supporters, was marked by a festive event underscoring APC’s growing appeal in the state.
Addressing the defector and her supporters, Governor Oyebanji assured them that their political ambitions and future within the party are guaranteed.
Represented by the Deputy Governor, Chief (Mrs.) Monisade Afuye, Oyebanji described APC as the most democratic party in Nigeria, emphasizing its commitment to better welfare packages for citizens.
Elebute-Halle, who contested the June 18, 2022 governorship election under the ADP, had now decided to align her political vision with that of Governor Oyebanji. Her decision was seen as a significant endorsement of the Oyebanji administration, which has gained recognition for its people-centric policies and initiatives since coming to power.
Governor Oyebanji expressed optimism about the defectors’ integration, promising that no one would be discriminated against or deprived of their rights within the party. He highlighted that APC’s strength lies in its inclusivity and commitment to the welfare of both its members and the general public.
He said: “Our party is for all Nigerians, and it is the only party that prioritizes the interest of Nigerians above other narrow interests,”
He further stated that APC’s popularity is a result of its populist governance style and the impact of its people-friendly programs. “Governor Oyebanji and the party leaders will provide you with every opportunity to realize your ambition in the APC,” he assured Elebute-Halle and her supporters.
Oyebanji also lauded the progress made under his administration, emphasizing that significant strides had been taken in fulfilling the six pillars of his governance model. “The governor has addressed the six pillars of his administration within this short period and brought great progress and development, as he promised when he took over the mantle of leadership,” Oyebanji highlighted.
The ceremony saw the National Chairman of the APC, Dr. Abdullahi Ganduje, represented by the APC Acting Chairman in Ekiti State, Hon. Sola Elesin, formally hand over the party’s flag to Elebute-Halle. Ganduje described Elebute-Halle as a “heavyweight politician” whose entry into the APC would undoubtedly add value to the party. He assured that all the defectors would have equal opportunities within the APC to pursue their political goals without restriction.
“We have no new members in the APC. We are one and equal. The APC is a party of progress, and we shall go the extra mile to bring people of substance like you into our fold,” Ganduje added, emphasizing the party’s open-door policy for progress-oriented individuals.
Meanwhile, the Special Adviser to the Governor on Political Matters, Chief Jide Awe echoed similar sentiments, stating that APC’s dominance in the political space was because of its focus on progress and inclusivity. “The APC stands for progress, which is why we are different from others. We don’t put barriers in anyone’s way to realize their ambition; our party is for all,” Awe declared.
Elebute-Halle, visibly delighted by the warm reception, explained that her decision to join APC was motivated by her desire to contribute meaningfully to Governor Oyebanji’s government. She described Oyebanji’s administration as a model of effective governance and was eager to be part of the positive transformation taking place in Ekiti.
She also vowed to work for peace and unity within the APC, pledging to deploy her extensive structures and networks across the state to ensure the party’s success in upcoming elections. “I shall do all within my power and reach to make sure that my positive impact is felt,” Elebute-Halle affirmed, showcasing her determination to bolster the party’s fortunes.
In solidarity with the APC’s “Renewed Hope Agenda” championed by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Elebute-Halle distributed food palliatives to selected individuals during the event, reinforcing her commitment to grassroots development and welfare. The gesture was well-received, further solidifying her position within her new political family.
“We are joining the APC to add value to the governments of President Tinubu and Governor Oyebanji. I have seen the two leaders as being committed to the welfare of the masses and the development of this nation,” she added, underscoring her alignment with the vision of the party’s leadership.
The event marked a significant moment in Ekiti State’s political landscape, with the defection of a prominent political figure and her supporters. The APC’s ranks have swelled, and with the assurance of equal opportunities and the promise of good governance, the party appears poised to strengthen its hold on the state’s politics as the 2024 elections approach.
