- In a major political development in Okeagbe Ward 3, the pioneer chairman of the Independent Community Campaign (ICC), Mr. Oloruntoba Femi, alongside hundreds of his followers, has collapsed the group’s political structure into the Asiwaju Mandate Group (AMG), declaring support for the Honourable Minister of Interior, Dr. Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo (BTO).
The development comes amid a broader political realignment in Okeagbe, as hundreds of ICC members loyal to Ondo State Governor, Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa, also dumped their former camp and enthusiastically joined the growing BTO political family yesterday. They were warmly received by Asiwaju Olumuyiwa Asagunla, Director-General of the Asiwaju Mandate Group, in a move that further strengthens the group’s presence in the community.
Mr. Oloruntoba Femi, a former APC Youth Leader in Okeagbe Ward 3, described his former group as a political misfortune, expressing disappointment over what he considered its failure to contribute meaningfully to the development of the community. He maintained that, over the years, the group had not made any significant contributions to the progress of Okeagbe.
Speaking on the development, Mr. Agbabiaka, who worked closely with the pioneer chairman and played a key role in mobilising support for ICC, described Hon. Dr. Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo as a hero. He questioned the continued existence of any anti-BTO group in the minister’s hometown, stressing that the time had come for members to unite behind his leadership and political vision.
The defectors were formally received by prominent political leaders and stakeholders within the Asiwaju Mandate Group. Those present included Asiwaju Olumuyiwa Asagunla, Director-General of AMG and the Odofin Ogboye of Afa Okeagbe; Hon. Bola Salami, AMG Coordinator for Akoko North-West; Hon. Becrin, an AMG executive member in Akoko North-West and Vice Chairman of the APC in the area; and Comrade Ale Joseph, AMG Coordinator for Ward 3, alongside other party stakeholders.
Addressing the press, Asiwaju Olumuyiwa Asagunla warmly welcomed the defectors into the BTO political fold. He highlighted the importance of distancing themselves from groups opposed to BTO, citing some individuals present at the gathering as examples of people who had benefited from various recruitment opportunities.
In his vote of thanks, Mr. Agbabiaka expressed appreciation to the AMG Director-General for travelling all the way from Akure with his entourage to receive the new members. He prayed for their safe return journey and wished them continued success in their future endeavours.
The development marks a significant political realignment in Okeagbe Ward 3, as former ICC members and other political supporters align with the Asiwaju Mandate Group and declare their support for Hon. Dr. Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo.
