Osun commissioner confirms resignation from pdp due to internal crisis
The political landscape in Osun State is undergoing a significant transformation as Governor Ademola Adeleke prepares to announce his new political affiliation.
The State Commissioner for Information and Public Enlightenment, Kolapo Alimi, has disclosed that the Governor is expected to unveil his new political party before December 13. This major shift follows Governor Adeleke’s formal exit from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), marking the culmination of persistent internal conflicts.
The Governor’s resignation was formally confirmed on Monday, though the resignation letter itself was submitted earlier, on November 4. The submission was made to PDP officials in the Sagba Abogunde area of Ward 2, located within the Ede North Local Government Area. This development has generated significant discussion within the state, prompting the Commissioner to address the public directly.
Longstanding disputes cited as primary reason for departure
Speaking during a political programme broadcast on Rave FM in Osogbo, Commissioner Alimi attributed Governor Adeleke’s departure to longstanding internal disputes plaguing the PDP. He stressed that the crisis was particularly deep-seated at the national level, directly impacting the integrity of the party’s nomination processes. Alimi clarified that the Governor’s withdrawal was reluctantly necessary to safeguard his political future and aspirations.
The Commissioner emphasized that the Governor’s decision was heavily influenced by the timeline for the upcoming political contest. Osun State’s next governorship election is rapidly approaching, and the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has set a crucial deadline. The approaching December 15 deadline for party nominations forced the Governor to make a timely and realistic decision regarding his platform.
Acknowledging public support amid political uncertainty
Despite the political development, Commissioner Alimi used the opportunity to appeal for calm and continued support from the state’s residents. He acknowledged the strong backing the Governor has historically received from the populace, which he emphasized remains crucial during this transition. Alimi referenced a well-known Yoruba proverb, noting that a leader’s ultimate security is drawn from the sustained support of the people.
The Commissioner stated that Governor Adeleke is thoroughly satisfied with the public reactions to his resignation and the decision to seek a new political home. He maintained that the Governor would not have abandoned the PDP if the party had managed to remain united and resolve its deeply rooted national crisis. This suggests the move was purely a strategic necessity dictated by the party’s unstable structure.
Dispelling opposition claims and setting a clear timeline
Commissioner Alimi also took the time to address claims reportedly made by the opposition All Progressives Congress (APC), which allegedly welcomed Governor Adeleke’s exit from the PDP. Alimi dismissed these claims as disingenuous, stating that the APC was merely “pretending” to be supportive. He explained that the opposition’s true strategy was for the Governor to remain in a divided PDP, thereby making his candidacy vulnerable to legal and political challenges.
He confidently asserted that Governor Adeleke’s proactive political maneuver has successfully placed him “ahead of them,” effectively countering the APC’s calculations. Regarding the Governor’s next political platform, Alimi confirmed that extensive consultations are ongoing. He provided a specific timeline, assuring the public that the Governor’s new political path will become clear “By December 12 or 13,” allowing just enough room before the INEC nomination closure.
Strategic move ahead of electoral commission deadline
The timing of Governor Adeleke’s decision is highly strategic, positioning him firmly for the upcoming electoral cycle. His withdrawal from the PDP was made to prevent any internal party squabbles from derailing his bid for re-election in 2026. The Commissioner underscored the importance of securing a stable platform well ahead of the Independent National Electoral Commission’s final deadline for nominations.
The political maneuvering highlights the fluid and highly contested nature of state-level politics in Nigeria, particularly leading up to a major election. Governor Adeleke’s choice of a new party will undoubtedly reshape alliances and oppositional dynamics across the state, making the announcement anticipated by December 13 a crucial event. The focus is now on the specific party he will choose and the political figures he will carry along in this new dispensation.
