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Senator Adesoji Akanbi may have set up a battle with Oyo State governor, Abiola Ajimobi over the Oyo South senatorial district seat in the National Assembly, by dumping the All Progressives Congress (APC) for the African Democratic Congress (ADC).
Akanbi registered himself as a member of the ADC at Ibadan North West Local Government Area on Thursday.
Senator Akanbi who currently occupies the senate seat wants to return but Ajimobi has reportedly indicated interest. Ajimobi, being the incumbent governor is on a sure-footing to get the party’s ticket. Ajimobi was in the senate between 2003 and 2007.
Although the governor has not publicly declared for senate, the words and actions within his political camp indicate that he had obtained the party’s senate nomination form. Akanbi’s defection to the ADC is also an indication that Ajimobi may indeed be interested in the senate.
The serving senator had reportedly written a letter to Ajimobi to intimate him about his wish to return to the red chambers.
Akanbi in the letter, said his decision to seek re-election was based on the desires of the people he represents. He also hinted on the fact that he would not like to engage the governor in the APC primaries.
The letter reads in part: “My decision to seek re-election to represent Oyo South Senatorial district is based on yawnings of the people of the district.
“Their plea is hinged on two factors. First is consolidation of our shared values of democratic ideas and second, continuity of the welfarist programmes that are targeted at the people, which the members of the constituency are currently enjoying. Sir, they are being very supportive and understanding for a renewal of the hope of better service, in the light of the social contract we both dispose to. Your Excellency, since there is no absolute rights,and given the fact that you offer the political compass that directs my sail, both as an uncle whom I hold in a very high esteem and as a supportive leader, who is interested in my progress.
“I assure your Excellency of my unflinching loyalty as I also pledge same to our party, our President, our National Leader and all our great leaders. Let me also reiterate here that, even though I respect the voices of my people, that doesn’t de-facto confer on me the power, or gives me a carte blanche, to go into a primary with you, to slug the ticket out in a political contest, in our party (APC) in which you re my unquestioned Leader cum Mentor.
“That would be quite unbecoming and as empty as a thought without content. My loyalty to you sir, I pledge once again, is total. While awaiting Your Excellency’s speedy response and further directive, please accept my sincere best wishes with utmost regards”.