Agboola Ajayi, the governorship candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Ondo State’s forthcoming election, has firmly denied rumours linking him to a coalition with the African Democratic Congress (ADC).
In a joint statement signed by Ajayi and eight prominent PDP leaders on Wednesday in Akure, the claims of defection were described as “baseless and deceptive.” The statement, released by Bakitta Bello, Chairman of the PDP’s State Caretaker Committee, responded to recent media reports and political speculation.
“We understand that recent narratives and the movements of some political figures have raised concerns and questions among our loyal members,” the statement noted. “We wish to make it clear that neither the national body nor the Ondo State leadership of the PDP is in coalition talks or aligning with any other political groups.”
The PDP reaffirmed its commitment to contesting the November election independently, with a vision to “rescue, rebuild and reposition” Ondo State and Nigeria.
The party’s leadership highlighted that its real strength lies not in political manoeuvring but in the dedication and loyalty of grassroots members across the state’s 203 wards and 18 local government areas.
Encouraging party faithful to remain united, the statement continued: “The PDP is not merely a political platform; it is a symbol of hope, democracy, and effective governance.”
Party members were also urged to ignore misleading reports and maintain focus on the coming electoral battle.
Signatories to the statement include Agboola Ajayi himself, Senator Bode Olajumoke, Eddy Olafeso (both members of the Board of Trustees), Debo Ologunagba (National Publicity Secretary), Clement Faboyede (NEC Member), Olajide Oguntodu (Minority Leader of the Ondo State House of Assembly), Ladi Omotehinse (Chairman of the Forum of PDP Local Government Chairmen), Bakitta Bello (State Caretaker Committee Chairman) and Oluseye Olujimi (Secretary of the State Caretaker Committee).
