by Deji Abiodun
A war of words ensued on Thursday between the Ondo State Governor, Dr. Olusegun Mimiko, and his deputy, Alhaji Ali Olanusi, over the defection of the latter from the ruling Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to the All Progressives Congress (APC).
If you missed the story, read here Another defection, Ondo deputy governor defects from PDP to APC…
While Olanusi accused the Mimiko administration of marginalizing many of his followers, the state Commissioner of Information, Mr. Kayode Akinmade, described his exit as good riddance to bad rubbish. Olanusi, in a press statement issued by his media aide, Daisi Ajayi, complained of “total exclusion” from government.
The statement read: “In the unfolding political development in our country today, and in Ondo State in particular, it is increasingly clear that I need to chart a new course for majority of my followers who look up to me for direction and leadership and who have watched helplessly in the last six years (6) years, the untold marginalisation and total exclusion from the government they laboured to put in place.
“While still being in place as the democratically elected Deputy Governor of Ondo State, I have decided to lead my teeming supporters and well-wishers in the state into the All Progressive Congress (APC) where we can find justice, fairness, equity and democratic liberty- a party to which majority of our kith and kins (sic) in Yorubaland and belongs (sic).”
He added: “I have taken this decision at this critical time, in the best interest of peace, stability and good governance of our dear State and for the overall development of the South West and the Nation.” However, Akinmade in an interview with Daily Times described Ajayi as a political lightweight.
He said: “This was a man who could not win his polling unit and ward. He was of no electoral use to the party and government. We can only wish him well in his ridiculous journey.”
