The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Osun State has suffered a major setback as hundreds of members in Ayedire Local Government Area dumped the ruling party for the African Democratic Congress (ADC).
The defectors, led by Tunji Ogunrinu, were formally received by officials of the Omoluabi Progressives, a political movement backed by the Interim National Secretary of the ADC and former Minister of Interior, Ogbeni Rauf Aregbesola.
Explaining the reasons behind the mass defection, Ogunrinu said their decision was informed by the PDP’s poor internal management and failure to reward loyalty among members. “The decision to part ways with the PDP was not taken lightly but was borne out of dissatisfaction with poor internal management of the ruling party and the failure to reward loyalty among its members,” he stated.
Another defector, Abdulganiyu Akeem, said the move signaled a demand for better governance in Osun, adding that “it is time for citizens to arise and shine rather than continue with suffering and smiling.”
Former Osun lawmaker representing Ayedire Constituency, Gbenga Ogunkanmi, who facilitated the defection, described the new entrants as political heavyweights and grassroots mobilisers whose presence would strengthen the ADC’s base in the state.
Welcoming the defectors, the Chairman of Omoluabi Progressives, Azeez Adesiji, assured them of full integration into the party’s structure, noting that the ADC was ready to provide a credible alternative for Osun citizens.
Reacting, the PDP spokesperson in Osun, Oladele Bamiji, dismissed the defection, insisting that those who left were not recognised members of the party. “We don’t know those that defected. They are unknown to us. Genuine party members know how to address their grievances,” he maintained, stressing that the PDP still enjoys a solid grassroots presence across the state.
The development comes amid heightened political realignments in Osun as opposition parties strategise to weaken Governor Ademola Adeleke’s influence ahead of future elections.
