The Deputy Governor of Ondo State, Ali Olanusi, has given reasons for resigning his membership of the ruling Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) today and declaring for the All Progressives Congress (APC).

According to Olanusi in a statement quoted by Channels Television, “In the unfolding political development in our country today, and in Ondo State in particular, it is increasingly clear that I need to chart a new course for majority of my followers who look up to me for direction and leadership and who have watched helplessly in the last six (6) years, the untold marginalisation and total exclusion from the government they laboured to put in place.

“While still being in place as the democratically elected Deputy Governor of Ondo State, I have decided to lead my teeming supporters and well wishers in the state into the All Progressives Congress (APC) where we can find justice, fairness, equity and democratic liberty – a party to which majority of our kith and kins in Yorubaland and belong.

“I have taken this decision at this critical time, in the best interest of peace, stability and good governance of our dear state and for the overall development of the South West and the Nation.”

Olanusi, an indigene of Supare in Akoko South West Local Government Area of Ondo, became the Deputy Governor of the State in 2009 under the platform of Labour Party before he defected alongside the State Governor, Olusegun Mimiko, to the PDP in October, 2014.

Reacting to the news of Mr. Olanusi’s defection, the Ondo State Government said through the Commissioner for Information, Kayode Akinmade: “The State Government just received the news of the defection of Alhaji Ali Olanusi, the Deputy Governor of Ondo State to the All Progressive Congress.

“Though it came as a surprise, government acknowledges his right to determine his political affiliation and wish him well.”

•Photo shows Ali Olanusi.