AKINWALE ABOLUWADE
The Deputy Director of the Allied People’s Movement (APM) Governorship Campaign Council in Oyo State, Mr Dapo Falade, has described the recent wave of political defections and resignations of political appointees in the state as a realignment of personal and political interests rather than actions driven by public welfare.
Falade, who is also the Senior Special Assistant on Media and Publicity to Governor Seyi Makinde, stated this during an interview on Dominion 106.1 FM while reacting to the resignation of the governor’s Chief of Staff and other political developments in the state.
He described the timing of the defections as politically motivated, noting that political cross-carpeting was not new in Nigeria, having been practised since the First Republic. He, however, questioned the rationale behind politicians abandoning their political platforms after more than five years.
According to him, political participation should be driven by the desire to contribute meaningfully to the development of the state rather than individual ambitions. Falade likened political defections to transfers in European football, insisting that politicians moving into new parties must have something valuable to offer.
He maintained that the welfare and interests of ordinary residents should take priority over personal political calculations.
Speaking on Governor Makinde’s reaction to the developments, Falade described him as a calm and composed leader who would not allow political pressure to affect his approach to governance.
He also dismissed concerns that the resignation of the Chief of Staff could weaken the political prospects of the APM governorship candidate, Bimbo Adekanmbi, insisting that no individual was indispensable in politics. He added that the APM campaign structure remained united and active despite the unfolding developments.
Falade recalled that former Governor Abiola Ajimobi experienced similar political resignations during his administration but eventually secured re-election, becoming the first governor in Oyo State to serve two consecutive terms. He argued that political defections did not automatically determine electoral outcomes.
The APM chieftain also dismissed claims that Governor Makinde had endorsed a preferred successor, insisting that the governor had not entered into any agreement with those who had indicated interest in succeeding him in 2027. He further maintained that speculation about Makinde’s presidential ambition had not distracted him from governing the state.
Falade expressed confidence in the electoral prospects of the APM, describing Adekanmbi as the most suitable candidate to succeed Makinde in 2027. He said political interests would become clearer as the election season progresses, adding that the governor remained firmly in charge of the state’s affairs despite the political realignments.
