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Iwo Accord Leaders Dismiss Rabiu’s Defection, Describe Him as Liability
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Iwo Accord Leaders Dismiss Rabiu’s Defection, Describe Him as Liability
By Waliu Adetokun, Osogbo
Leaders and elders of the Accord Party in Iwo Local Government Area have reacted to the defection of Hon. Adesina Rabiu to the All Progressives Congress (APC), describing his exit as a relief to the party.
In a statement issued on Wednesday and signed by the party’s General Chairman in Iwo, Chief Alidu Adeoye, the leadership said the lawmaker’s presence in the party had been more of a burden than a benefit.
The group stated that Rabiu’s performance since his election in 2022 had been disappointing, alleging that he failed to meet the expectations of both the party and his constituents.
“Hon. Adesina Rabiu was more of a liability and embarrassment to the Accord Party than an asset,” the statement read.
The leaders noted that despite growing dissatisfaction, the party had exercised restraint in taking action against him due to the intervention of some elders.
They also linked his defection to his alleged ambition to secure a second-term ticket, which they said goes against the zoning arrangement in Iwo State Constituency.
“When he was invited to the Government House a few days ago, we knew he would not stay any longer because his request for a second-term ticket is a direct violation of the zoning formula operating within the Iwo State Constituency,” the statement said.
According to the party, the zoning arrangement clearly indicates that Isale Oba is next in line to produce a representative for the State Assembly, a position they said cannot be compromised.
The statement further pointed out that Rabiu himself benefitted from the same arrangement in 2022 when he was given the party’s ticket to contest.
The leaders expressed regret over his emergence as the party’s candidate, apologising to the state leadership of the party and Governor Ademola Adeleke.
“We apologise to the state leadership of the party and our dear governor, Senator Ademola Adeleke, for fielding and sustaining such a failed politician in the first place,” the statement added.
Describing his exit as a positive development, the party said it has lifted a burden from its shoulders.
“The exit of Hon. Rabiu is a good development for the Iwo Accord. The shame has been removed from us,” the leaders said.
They assured residents of Iwo that the party would put forward a credible candidate in future elections.
“We promise the people of Iwo that we will present a credible candidate who will make them proud at the State Assembly,” the statement noted.
The party also reaffirmed its support for Governor Adeleke, stating that the people of Iwo remain committed to his re-election.
“Iwo people remain committed and passionate in their support for the re-election of Governor Ademola Adeleke. Our people appreciate the governor for what he has done so far and what he will still do for our people,” the statement concluded.
