The executive members of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Oyo North Senatorial District have reaffirmed their loyalty and support for Governor Seyi Makinde, insisting that the party remains united and strong despite recent defections of some members.
The declaration followed the defection of Senator Ayoola Agboola and a few of his supporters, which had sparked speculation about a possible crack within the party’s structure in the zone.
PDP leaders hold strategic meeting in Ibadan
The resolution was contained in a communiqué issued after a strategic meeting held in Ibadan, the Oyo State capital, on Monday.
The meeting, chaired by the Oyo North PDP Senatorial Chairman and former lawmaker Yinusa Yusuff, brought together top party executives, grassroots leaders, and political stakeholders from across the senatorial district.
During the meeting, party leaders emphasized that the defection of a few individuals cannot weaken the PDP’s political strength or popularity in Oyo North, which remains one of the strongholds of the party in the state.
Agboola’s exit will not affect party structure
Senator Ayoola Agboola, a former Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs (2007–2011), represented Oyo North in the Senate between 2011 and 2015. He recently announced his resignation from the PDP, citing personal political reasons.
Party leaders, however, downplayed the impact of his decision, stressing that the party’s structure remains intact and focused on consolidating its electoral dominance ahead of future elections.
“The defection of Senator Agboola and a few others will not affect the PDP in Oyo North. Most of them played little or no significant role in the party’s victory during the 2023 general elections. Their exit is merely a pursuit of selfish political interests,” the communiqué read.
PDP passes vote of confidence in Makinde
The Oyo North PDP leadership also passed a vote of confidence in Governor Seyi Makinde, commending his administration for what they described as unprecedented development across the state, particularly in the Oke-Ogun area.
“We declare our total support for our great party, the PDP, under the dynamic leadership of Governor Seyi Makinde,” the communiqué added.
The leaders highlighted achievements in infrastructure, education, agriculture, and rural development as evidence of the governor’s commitment to the region’s progress.
Defection driven by personal ambition, says PDP
The communiqué also attributed Agboola’s exit from the party to personal ambition rather than ideological differences.
Party executives accused the former senator of imposing council chairmen and party executives in Oke-Ogun during his time in office. They described his recent defection as “a continuation of self-serving politics,” which does not reflect the collective will of the people of Oyo North.
“The people of Oyo North are politically enlightened and will not allow personal interests to derail the collective progress of the zone,” the communiqué stated.
Focus on party unity and future elections
Despite the defection, the Oyo North PDP leadership expressed confidence in the party’s ability to remain united and focused as it prepares for upcoming elections.
They noted that the party has a strong grassroots network and enjoys widespread support from the electorate due to Governor Makinde’s performance and inclusive leadership style.
According to the leaders, “Our focus remains on strengthening the party’s base, mobilizing support, and ensuring that the PDP continues to win elections in Oyo State.”
Analysts say defections may have limited impact
Political observers believe that while defections can sometimes create short-term ripples, their long-term impact may be minimal if the party remains organized and united.
In Oyo State, the PDP continues to enjoy broad support, largely due to Governor Makinde’s popularity and development agenda. Party insiders also note that many of those leaving were not central to the party’s recent electoral successes.
The reaffirmation of loyalty by the Oyo North leadership is therefore seen as a strategic move to project stability and unity within the party, especially ahead of future political contests.
Conclusion: PDP stands firm in Oyo North
With the latest developments, the PDP in Oyo North appears determined to maintain its political dominance in the region. Party leaders insist that defections will not derail their plans, and have pledged continued support for Governor Makinde’s administration.
Observers say the situation may test the party’s internal cohesion, but the leadership’s quick response sends a clear message that the PDP remains strong and focused on governance and elections, not personal ambitions.
