A prominent member of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Bariga and former aspirant for the Lagos State House of Assembly (Shomolu Constituency II), Azeez Ogunyemi Roman, has officially defected to the All Progressives Congress (APC).
Ogunyemi, a grassroots mobiliser popularly known as Roman 6, was received by the party leadership, supporters, and stakeholders of Bariga APC on Monday, September 15, marking what party leaders described as a significant boost for the ruling party.
Notable APC leaders present at the event included Chairman of Bariga Local Council, Hon. Bukola Adedeji; APC LGA Chairman (Bariga), Hon. Mejolagbe; APC LGA Youth Leader, Alhaji Okeowo Nureni; Senior Special Assistant to the Lagos State Governor on Civic Engagement, Lijirin Ruth Ayomide; eight APC ward coordinators and secretaries, among others.
Ogunyemi explained that he, alongside his large base of followers, decided to join the ruling party to strengthen it and contribute to making Bariga better. Addressing the gathering, he cited the transformative leadership and developmental strides of the incumbent council chairman, Hon. Bukola Adedeji Iyanuiwura, as the key factor behind his defection. He also acknowledged his admiration for the leadership style of former chairman, Hon. Kolade Alabi, while commending his Lagos East Senatorial ambition, which he described as a bold step.
Reflecting on his political journey, Ogunyemi noted that he contested for the Lagos State House of Assembly under the PDP in 2023 and had previously vied for a councillorship position in Ward E under the Young Progressives Party (YPP). However, he now identifies the APC as the party that truly prioritises the welfare of the people and effectively manages their affairs.
“I’m happy to join the party today. This is a momentous occasion. I didn’t come alone, I’m standing here today with my supporters too especially members of Motor Dealers Association; Bariga artiste forum consisting of Content Creators, DJ, entertainers, and other vibrant youths. My dedication to public service remains unwavering, and I am excited about the opportunities this new chapter will bring to amplify all efforts in addressing the pressing issues that matter to us all in Bariga Local Council,” Ogunyemi said.
Hon. Adedeji praised Ogunyemi for leading his teeming supporters from PDP to APC and urged them to educate other PDP members about the achievements of the APC government in Bariga while mobilising more residents to join the ruling party. The event was capped with the symbolic presentation of the APC broom to Ogunyemi and his supporters.
