By Olasunkanmi Akoni

LAGOS—Deputy chairman of Lagos State chapter of All Progressives Congress, APC, Cardinal James Odumbaku, yesterday dispelled rumours that he had defected to the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, saying he would not leave the party before and after the 2015 election.

This came weeks after the media was awash with the report that the APC chieftain had concluded plans to defect to PDP and had allegedly met with Chief Olabode George and other PDP chieftains in Lagos.

Odumbaku, popularly known as Baba Eto, debunked the rumour while addressing  hundreds of his supporters at a reception held in his honour at Agidingbi town hall, Ojodu Local Council Development Area, LCDA.

He said:  “I am and will remain a loyal and committed member of APC.”

Explaining the reason for his absence from the political scene, the APC deputy chairman said: “My absence from party activities in recent time was due to my trip abroad to tackle health issues that needed to be solved before the 2015 general election.

“A couple of months ago, I was not in good health and had to take time off. I am back now, healthy and fit enough to face the forthcoming politically busy and interesting months.

“I know there have been a lot of rumours flying round. I wish to reiterate the fact that today I am a member of our great party and still remain the deputy state chairman of APC, Lagos State.”