Osun PDP Suffers Major Blow as Top Members Defect to ADC, Align with Omoluabi Progressives
Osun PDP Suffers Major Blow as Top Members Defect to ADC, Align with Omoluabi Progressives
By Joseph Iyaji | Akahi News
The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Osun State has suffered another major political setback, as scores of its members in Ayedire Local Government officially defected to the African Democratic Congress (ADC), pledging loyalty to the Omoluabi Progressives movement.
The defection, which took place on Tuesday, was described by political observers as a significant realignment in Osun’s grassroots politics, signalling growing dissatisfaction with the ruling party.
Defection Led by Prominent PDP Figures
The defectors were led by Otunba Architect Tunji Ogunrinu, a former Vice Chairman of Ayedire Local Council Development Area under the PDP, and were formally received at the Oranmiyan House in Osogbo, the operational headquarters of the Omoluabi Progressives.
Speaking on behalf of the new members, Alhaji Abdulganiyu Akeem, a former councillor in Ileogbo, explained that frustration with the PDP’s internal politics and poor treatment of loyal party members forced their exit.
“Our people deserve better governance. It is time to arise and shine rather than continue suffering and smiling. For too long, we have endured neglect despite our sacrifices, and today, we have chosen a new path with the ADC under the Omoluabi Progressives,” Akeem declared.
Grassroots Leaders Voice Out Grievances
Other grassroots leaders echoed similar sentiments, alleging that the PDP had lost touch with its base.
- Prince Adetunji (COSMO) lamented that ward and unit mobilisers, who had worked tirelessly for the party’s victories, had been sidelined and abandoned.
- The Chairman of Idi Ogun Unit in Ileogbo 2 accused the PDP of blatant favouritism in appointments and resource distribution.
- Comrade Agbabiaka from Olupona and Toyosi from Kuta linked their defection to admiration for the leadership style of former governor Rauf Aregbesola, who they described as a grassroots mobiliser and visionary.
Several former PDP polling agents also expressed their disappointment, claiming that their sacrifices during the last gubernatorial election had not been recognised or rewarded.
Omoluabi Progressives Celebrate Major Political Gain
The defection event, moderated by Hon. Gbenga Ogunkanmi, a former member of the Osun State House of Assembly, was hailed as a “huge boost” for the ADC and the Omoluabi Progressives.
Ogunkanmi emphasised that the calibre of the defectors reflected a growing wave of discontent within the PDP, adding that their movement to ADC was a strategic realignment ahead of future political contests.
“This is not an ordinary defection. These are grassroots influencers who command loyalty and respect in their communities. Their presence in ADC is a clear message that the people are ready for a political shift,” he said.
ADC Promises Inclusiveness and Stronger Participation
In his remarks, Alhaji Azeez Adesiji, Chairman of the Omoluabi Progressives, warmly welcomed the defectors, assuring them of full integration into the ADC’s structures.
Adesiji reaffirmed the movement’s commitment to inclusiveness and participatory democracy, stressing that unlike the PDP, the ADC would prioritise the voices of ward leaders, unit representatives, and community mobilisers.
“Our doors are open, and every member matters in this movement. We will continue to build a party where loyalty and contributions are rewarded, not ignored,” he said.
He further urged both new and old members to take voter registration seriously, describing it as the most effective tool for political change and citizen empowerment.
Implications for Osun’s Political Landscape
Analysts say the defection could alter political dynamics in Ayedire and beyond, as grassroots leaders often play a decisive role in mobilising voters during elections. The PDP, which is currently in power in Osun, may face increasing challenges if such defections continue to spread across local governments.
The growing influence of the Omoluabi Progressives, a political movement inspired by former Governor Aregbesola’s legacy, is seen as a rallying point for aggrieved politicians and grassroots actors seeking alternative platforms.
Observers note that with the 2026 gubernatorial race on the horizon, defections of this magnitude could significantly shape party structures, alliances, and electoral outcomes in Osun State.
PDP Yet to Respond
As of the time of filing this report, the PDP leadership in Osun State had yet to issue an official statement regarding the defection. However, party insiders have expressed concerns that the exodus of committed grassroots leaders, if unchecked, could weaken the party’s hold in strategic local government areas.
For the ADC and Omoluabi Progressives, Tuesday’s defection is being celebrated as a turning point, reinforcing their readiness to challenge the PDP’s dominance and reposition themselves as a formidable force in Osun politics.
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