By Ibrahim Kegbegbe
Hon. Adenaya Fatai, popularly known as Modawoni, has officially welcomed the over 1,000 members of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) who defected to the New Nigeria People’s Party (NNPP) in Ogun State, describing the move as a landmark step toward a new political direction for the state.
The 2023 NNPP House of Assembly candidate for the Waterside Constituency and current Assistant Financial Secretary of the party in Ogun State made the remarks in a phone interview with The Merit Newspaper on Wednesday, May 14, 2025.
The mass defection, which took place on Sunday, May 11, at Ketebo Ward in Osi-Ota, Ado-Odo/Ota Local Government Area, saw a large crowd of PDP members from communities such as Itele, Odo-Pako, and parts of Ota officially join the NNPP during a vibrant rally.
Modawoni said he was “overwhelmed” by the courage and political consciousness of the defectors, calling their decision both timely and transformative.
“The move by these patriotic citizens shows that the people are tired of recycled promises and stagnant leadership,” he said. “This is not just a defection — it is a declaration of hope for Ogun State. The NNPP represents a future built on inclusiveness, accountability, and vision.”
According to Modawoni, the defection signals that the grassroots are ready for a party that puts people first rather than playing elite politics.
“What we are seeing is the beginning of a people’s movement. The New Nigeria People’s Party is growing stronger every day, and these new members will play key roles in shaping a better Ogun State,” he added.
He also commended the party leadership at the state level for building a welcoming and inclusive platform that encourages genuine political participation.
“I must applaud Barrister Olufemi John Aina, our state chairman, and Ambassador Olufemi Ajadi Oguntoyinbo for creating a party culture where no one is treated like a stranger. The decampees are not just joining — they are becoming stakeholders in a movement that is redefining politics in Nigeria.”
Modawoni urged the new members to remain committed, stressing the importance of collective effort in strengthening the NNPP ahead of the 2027 general elections.
Political observers say the increasing wave of defections to the NNPP, particularly from the PDP, points to rising dissatisfaction with the state of affairs in mainstream parties. The party’s emphasis on grassroots engagement, internal democracy, and citizen-driven policies has begun to resonate with communities seeking meaningful change.
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With strategic figures like Modawoni playing active roles within the NNPP, the party’s influence in Ogun’s political terrain appears poised for significant expansion.
As the countdown to 2027 continues, the NNPP’s message of renewal and people-first governance may prove to be a major force in shaping the state’s next chapter.
