Abdul-Azeez Adediran, popularly known as Jandor, has officially resigned from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).
Announcing his departure at a press briefing in Ikeja, Lagos, on Monday, Jandor cited widespread indiscipline and anti-party activities as key reasons for his exit.
Accompanied by a large group of supporters, he also pointed to actions by some party leaders, including former Deputy National Chairman, Chief Olabode George, as contributing factors to his decision.
According to Jandor, these leaders actively worked against the PDP in the 2023 elections.
He said, “I am here before you today with a heavy heart but a clear conscience. We have dedicated ourselves to the ideals of democracy, good governance and a pursuit of a better Lagos.
“However, it has been found evident that the leadership of the Peoples Democratic Party, both at the national and state levels, has failed to uphold these principles. The persistent anti-party activities, internal sabotage and lack of discipline have led me and my supporters to leave.
“We will consult widely with everybody and then take the decision to collapse our structure to another platform. What is majority on the ground now is that we have left the Peoples Democratic Party,” Jandor stated.
The PUNCH reports that Jandor had, in preparation for the 2023 general election, tackled the chieftain of their party in Lagos, Chief Bode George because he didn’t support his ambition due to his choice of running mate.
George, who supported Gbadebo Rhodes-Vivour, the Labour Party candidate in the election, claimed that he had no regrets about not supporting Jandor.
However, in a statement signed by Gbenga Ogunleye, Head, Media and Communications, JANDOR4Governor Campaign Organisation, Jandor said Bode George’s modus operandi during each election cycle is to attack the PDP candidate and destabilise the party, thus paving the way for the APC to remain in power.
The full statement reads, “Our attention has been drawn to a statement made by Chief Olabode George justifying his treacherous action during the recently held governorship election in Lagos State”.
“Chief George, while fielding questions on national television yesterday, said he had no regret for supporting and voting for the Labour Party governorship candidate against the candidate of his supposed political party, the Peoples Democratic Party”.
“It is not surprising that Chief Bode George, as his usual practice, worked against the interest of the PDP again, but his attempt to blame the infighting in the party as an excuse and a justification for his action is a failed attempt to hide behind a finger.”