Former PDP Chieftain Busari Olakunle Maruf (Gudugudu) Defects to Accord Party in Ibadan

…Blames party instability, hints at future political ambition

…As Party chairman hails move, urges more politicians to join

A former chieftain of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Ibadan South-West Local Government Area of Oyo State, Busari Olakunle Marruf, has officially defected to the Accord Party.

Marruf, popularly known as “Gudugudu,” made his declaration on Wednesday during a local government meeting of the party in Ibadan, marking his formal entry into Accord after completing his registration online.

Speaking at the event, the former PDP stalwart cited internal crises within the Peoples Democratic Party as the primary reason for his defection.

According to him, ongoing court cases and alleged attempts by some individuals to hijack the party structure in Oyo State have made the situation “unpalatable.”

He expressed concern that the situation within the PDP was deteriorating, noting that he decided to “take the bull by the horn” to avoid being caught in the crisis.

Marruf stated that although he had not previously declared interest in contesting any political office under the PDP, the instability within the party forced him to reconsider his political future.

He also emphasized the importance of having a viable political platform to sustain the achievements of the Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde, noting that without a stable structure, electoral success would be difficult.

Explaining his choice of the Accord Party, Marruf said he ruled out joining other parties, including the All Progressives Congress (APC) and the African Democratic Congress (ADC), citing concerns over division within their ranks.

He added that his decision was influenced by his previous affiliation with the Accord Party in 2011 under the leadership of the current Olubadan of Ibadanland, His Imperial Majesty, Oba Rashidi Adewolu Ladoja.

Describing his return as a “homecoming,” Marruf said he was warmly received by party members, many of whom he had worked with in the past.

While hinting at future political ambitions, he assured supporters that he would reveal his intentions at the appropriate time and pledged to contribute actively to the growth of the party.

He urged his supporters to remain steadfast, expressing confidence that the party would achieve success in future elections.

On the issue of the electoral framework, Marruf said he had yet to review the current Electoral Act, noting that much of the information available to him was based on speculation.

He called for the document to be made publicly accessible for proper study before making any formal comment.

He, however, raised concerns about reports of online party registration processes, suggesting that they could create uneven advantages for some political actors if not properly regulated.

In his remarks, The Accord party Chairman Ibadan Southwest, Hon. Suleiman Biola expressed
satisfaction over the defection of Busari Olakunle Marruf to the party.

He described the development as a welcome addition to the party’s growing strength in the local government.

Biola noted that Marruf’s defection signals a positive shift for the party and reflects increasing confidence among political stakeholders in the Accord platform.

The chairman also used the opportunity to call on other politicians who are yet to defect to consider joining the party.

According to him, the ongoing crisis affecting other political parties has created an opening for the Accord Party to expand its influence.

Biola stated that with some parties facing internal challenges, the Accord Party is positioning itself as a viable alternative, urging interested individuals to take advantage of the opportunity.

He expressed optimism that more defections would follow, adding that the party remains open to welcoming new members willing to align with its vision.