The Ondo state chapter of the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, has refuted media reports that the deputy governor of the state, Mr. Agboola Ajayi has concluded plans to join the Zenith Labour Party.
It was widely reported that Ajayi had met with the former governor of the state and the National Leader of ZLP, Olusegun Mimiko, over his plans to defect to the party.
On Sunday, ZLP confirmed in a statement that it has picked Ajayi as its governorship candidate ahead of the forthcoming election in the state.
Reacting to the development, PDP Director of Media and Publicity, Zadok Akintoye said Ajayi remains a valuable and respected PDP member.
Akintoye noted that the embattled deputy governor has not informed the party of his intention to leave and remains a committed member of the party.
He said: “Ajayi remains valuable and respected PDP member. We take note of the information being promoted and spread across social media platforms that Mr. Agboola Ajayi has concluded plans to join the Zenith Labour Party. “
For the avoidance of doubt, Mr. Ajayi remains a valuable and respected member of the PDP and has not informed the party of his intention to leave and remains a committed member of the party.
“Please note that clarification on the allegation has been sought from the Deputy Governor and assurances given to the leadership of the party of his intention to stay in the PDP.
“Our effort at winning the next election remains ongoing and we are committed to removing the incumbent governor through a free and fair election.”