The Progressives Network for Tinubu (PNT) has reaffirmed its commitment to consolidating the progressive movement and strengthening grassroots participation in Ondo State politics following the formal defection of the entire structure of the Action Alliance (AA) into the All Progressives Congress (APC).
Speaking during the defection ceremony in Akure, the Director-General of PNT, Pastor Olumide Obadele, described the merger as a strategic milestone in the group’s mission to unify progressive forces across the Southwest ahead of future elections.
Obadele commended the leadership of the APC in the state for maintaining internal cohesion and acknowledged the support of the Minister of Interior, Dr. Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, whom he credited for fostering synergy and promoting development-driven politics.
He disclosed that the network was intensifying grassroots mobilisation with a target of delivering over one million votes for the APC in the coming elections through youth engagement, voter education, and community sensitisation.
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Speaking during the defection, the former State Chairman of AA and the 2024 governorship candidate, Comrade Fred Akinuli, said the integration of the AA structure aligns with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda and PNT’s vision of inclusive political engagement.
Akinuli, who now serves as Deputy Director-General of PNT, said his defection was both ideological and personal, noting that it marked a new chapter in his 20-year political journey.
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Receiving the defectors, the APC State Chairman, Engr. Ade Adetimehin, described the move as “a boost to the party’s strength and unity,” urging the new members to return to their wards and work for the growth of the party.
He said, “APC is a progressive and welfarist party. We are one united family and open to people of good intentions who are ready to work for the success of the party and the development of our state.”
Adetimehin urged the new members to demonstrate loyalty, discipline, and commitment to the ideals of the progressive family, adding that the APC remains the only platform with a clear vision and structure to deliver sustainable development in the state and Nigeria at large.
He commended the defectors for taking what he described as “a wise and timely decision,” assuring them of equal opportunities and inclusion in the affairs of the party.
According to him, the APC in Ondo State under his leadership will continue to strengthen internal democracy, reward dedication, and promote unity ahead of future elections.
He also called on party leaders at all levels to guide and integrate the new members to ensure smooth collaboration in grassroots mobilisation efforts.
The Minister of Interior, Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, expressed optimism that Ondo State would deliver over 90 per cent of votes for President Tinubu in the next presidential election, up from the 68 per cent previously recorded.
Represented by the Director-General of the Asiwaju Mandate Group, Hon. Olumuyiwa Asagunla, he said the defection marks a fresh phase of consolidation for the ruling APC as it prepares for future electoral contests in Ondo State.
Other notable party leaders at the event included Mrs. Atinuke Akadiri, State Woman Leader; Hon. Agboola Kelly, party elder; Hon. Yusuf Ogunleye, Director-General of Grassroots Movement for Tinubu; and Hon. Dayo Awude.
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