JUST IN: Two PDP members defect to APC in Ondo

Two members of the Ondo State House of Assembly, Felix Afe and Tope Agbulu, have defected from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to the All Progressives Congress (APC).

Afe represents Akoko North-West 2, while Agbulu serves Akoko South-West 2. Their letters of resignation were read at Tuesday’s plenary session by the Clerk of the Assembly, Benjamin Jayeola.

The lawmakers cited irreconcilable differences within the PDP as the reason for their departure.

Afe explained that he consulted widely with his constituents and key stakeholders before making the decision. “APC, as a political platform, will enable me to deliver more dividends of democracy to my constituency,” he said.

Agbulu echoed similar sentiments, describing APC as “the most viable political platform to serve my constituents” and thanking the PDP for its support during his tenure with the party.

The defection increases APC’s strength in the Assembly to 24 out of 26 members, leaving PDP with just two.

The Ondo State House of Assembly has urged the state executive council to implement the Consolidated Legislative Salary Structure (CONLESS) for its staff.

The call comes after the Ondo State chapter of the Parliamentary Staff Association of Nigeria (PASAN) issued a 21-day ultimatum for the state government to effect the salary structure.

The Assembly’s Majority Leader, Mr Olatunji Oshati (Ose/APC), said the non-implementation of CONLESS is a matter of public concern, adding that the legislature had decided to intervene.

He appealed to Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa to address the concerns of Assembly staff and noted that other South-West states have already implemented the salary structure for their legislative staff.

Oshati urged staff to remain patient and allow the Assembly’s intervention to achieve a peaceful resolution.

Similarly, the Speaker, Chief Olamide Oladiji, advised staff not to take laws into their own hands but to prioritise dialogue.

He commended their patience and assured them that the Assembly would engage the governor to resolve the issue.

Oladiji added that implementing CONLESS would enhance staff capacity and efficiency, and affirmed that the legislature would continue to protect and defend their interests.