Oyo 2027: Arapaja's rumoured APC defection vindicates PDP's position on Gbolarumi, supporters insist

By Seyifunmi Odunuga 

Supporters of the Peoples Democratic Party governorship candidate in Oyo State, Hazeem Gbolarumi, have said the reported defection of former Deputy Governor Taofeek Arapaja to the All Progressives Congress has vindicated the party's position that Gbolarumi remains its authentic governorship candidate ahead of the 2027 general election.

The supporters said the development had effectively laid to rest the controversy surrounding the PDP's governorship ticket, insisting that the party had consistently maintained that Gbolarumi was its validly recognised flagbearer.

According to them, despite court pronouncements arising from the party's internal leadership dispute, Arapaja continued to parade himself as the PDP governorship candidate, a development they alleged created confusion among members and supporters of the party.

They argued that the reported move by Arapaja to the APC has further strengthened the PDP's position that Gbolarumi remains the only authentic governorship candidate recognised by the party.

The supporters described Gbolarumi as a committed party man who has remained steadfast and loyal to the PDP over the years, noting that he stood by the party through difficult times without abandoning its platform.

They added that Gbolarumi's grassroots political appeal, consistency and unwavering commitment to the PDP positioned him as the right candidate to lead the party into the 2027 governorship election.

While urging party faithful to remain united and focused, the supporters said the PDP would continue to build on its internal reconciliation efforts as it prepares for the next general election.