By Agbelusi Ganiyu

A United States-based chieftain of the All Progressives Congress (APC) and former House of Assembly aspirant under the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), in the 2023 general elections, Akinjide Akinlalu, has described the defection of Festus Olarewaju Akingbaso, popularly knownas Fessywest,  as a great blessing and a thing of joy for the APC.

Akingbaso, who currently represents Idanre/Ifedore Federal Constituency at the House of Representatives, according to Akinlalu, would be a valuable asset to the ruling party due to the large followership he commands and his impressive track record.

Speaking via a telephone interview from Kent, Ohio, USA, Akinlalu, who was one of the key figures that supported Akingbaso during his bid for the House of Representatives seat as a PDP delegate, said the lawmaker’s victory at the 2023 polls was a testament to his popularity and goodwill among the people.

He expressed confidence that Akingbaso’s continued consolidation of his political base would help silence opposition in future elections in the constituency.

He seized the opportunity to congratulate the outgoing APC State Chairman, Ade Adetimehin, for his purposeful leadership which has continued to strengthen the party and attract members from opposition parties.

Akinlalu also commended Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa for rewarding loyal party members and working tirelessly to sustain development across the state.

He particularly appreciated the governor for the ongoing dualisation of the Akure/Idanre road, noting that his efforts are meeting the expectations of the people.

He expressed satisfaction that the energy he put into delivering his polling unit and ward for the governor during the election was not wasted, stressing that Aiyedatiwa’s performance has put critics to shame.

Akinlalu, an indigene of Idanre and a lecturer in the USA, expressed optimism that President Bola Tinubu will lead Nigeria out of the current economic hardship.

He commended the president for initiating the Students Loan Scheme describing it as a laudable intervention that would help indigent students to achieve their dreams and reach their full potential.