Ondo PDP leaders disown defection claims to ADC, affirm party unity and deny any coalition merger talks across 203 wards
The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Ondo State has firmly rejected claims of defection by key members to the African Democratic Congress (ADC), stating unequivocally that the party remains strong, united, and unshaken.
Also read: Osun PDP Coalition Denial Sparks Shocking Rift with Atiku’s Opposition Bloc
In response to rising speculations surrounding alleged defections to the newly formed opposition coalition led by the ADC, prominent PDP leaders have come forward to dispel rumours and assert the integrity of the party structure across the state’s 203 wards and 18 local government areas.
A joint statement released on Wednesday by top PDP stakeholders — including Dr. Bode Olajumoke (Board of Trustees member), Dr. Eddy Olafeso, Hon. Debo Ologunagba (National Publicity Secretary), Chief Clement Faboyede, Olajide Oguntodu, and Rt. Hon. Bakita Bello (former Speaker and interim state chairman) — dismissed claims that the PDP was fragmenting or entering any coalition arrangement.
“Contrary to insinuations, the PDP remains strong at all levels — from the wards to the senatorial zones.
We urge our members not to be misled into believing that the PDP is part of any merger or coalition. Those harbouring such notions should retrace their political steps,” the statement read.
One of the high-profile figures at the centre of the speculation, former Deputy Governor and PDP gubernatorial candidate Agboola Ajayi, has denied defecting to the ADC.
His statement, described by party insiders as “a welcome clarification,” reinforces the party’s message of cohesion amid the swirl of political realignments in the state.
The party leaders stressed that the PDP in Ondo has remained operational, focused, and ready to contest the forthcoming elections as a credible alternative.
“Our structures are intact. We remain committed to offering the people of Ondo State a viable political future and will not be distracted by coalition rumours or false claims of defections,” they stated.
According to political analysts, the emergence of the ADC-led coalition had sparked concerns over potential shifts in party allegiance ahead of the 2025 elections.
However, the public denouncement by the Ondo PDP appears to have quelled immediate doubts about the party’s internal stability.
In recent months, various political coalitions have emerged at the national level, with opposition figures exploring new alliances to challenge the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC).
Still, Ondo PDP leaders maintain that their focus is on strengthening internal party democracy and preparing for the challenges ahead.
“This is a critical juncture in our political journey. It is important to clarify our position amid the ongoing coalition talks across the country and within Ondo State,” the statement concluded.
The leadership also urged party members and supporters to remain vigilant, resist political propaganda, and continue to mobilise at the grassroots.
Also read: Dele Momodu Warns Tinubu About Wike, 2027 Political Calculations
With this bold stance, the PDP in appears to be reinforcing its commitment to party loyalty, electoral competitiveness, and resistance against what it views as a distraction in the lead-up to the next election cycle.
