The internal crisis rocking the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, has taken a fresh turn as several political loyalists and close associates of Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde, announced their decision to leave the party ahead of the 2027 general elections.
The latest wave of defections comes amid prolonged leadership disputes within the PDP, which has seen the party split into factions aligned with Governor Makinde and the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike.
Sources confirmed that a number of prominent political figures loyal to the Oyo governor formally resigned their membership from the PDP on Thursday at different locations across the state.
Although speculation is rife that many of them may be heading to the Allied Peoples’ Movement, APM, none of the defectors officially disclosed their next political destination.
Among the notable figures who exited the party are former governorship aspirant, Ambassador Olufemi Oguntoyinbo, Special Adviser on Security to the Governor, Fatai Owoseni, and Chairman of Oluyole Local Government Area, Akeem Olatunji.
Others include the Deputy Speaker of the Oyo State House of Assembly, Abiodun Fadeyi, House of Representatives member representing Ibarapa North/Ibarapa Central Federal Constituency, Anthony Adepoju, member representing Ibadan North East/Ibadan South East Federal Constituency, Abass Adigun, and member representing Ibadan North West/Ibadan South West Federal Constituency, Adedeji Olajide.
Speaking on his decision to quit the PDP, Abiodun Fadeyi confirmed that the lingering internal crisis within the party informed his action.
“Yes, I am also leaving the party. I am defecting, of course. The reason is what others are giving. What are the reasons others are giving? It is due to the internal crisis,” he said.
Similarly, Akeem Olatunji blamed the growing instability within the PDP on the influence of the FCT Minister.
“Yes, it is true. Due to the internal crisis. You know Wike has bastardized the party. He did not allow the party to breathe. We need to give the people of our constituency the opportunity to enjoy good governance,” Olatunji stated.
Political observers believe the latest defections could significantly weaken the PDP structure in Oyo State as preparations intensify for the 2027 elections. Reports also indicate that more loyalists of Governor Makinde may soon announce their exit from the party in the coming days.
