2027: PDP crisis triggers mass resignations in Oyo as lawmakers, aspirants dump party
Aspirants for various elective positions in the 2027 general elections, alongside members of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Oyo State, have begun resigning from the party amid deepening internal
Aspirants for various elective positions in the 2027 general elections, alongside members of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Oyo State, have begun resigning from the party amid deepening internal wrangling.
Among those who have tendered their resignation letters are Hon. Anthony Adebayo Adepoju, representing Ibarapa Central and North Federal Constituency in the House of Representatives; the Chairman of Oluyole Local Government, Engr. Akeem Olatunji, PDP governorship aspirant, Ambassador Olufemi Ajadi Oguntoyinbo, and several others.
The affected politicians cited unresolved internal disputes within the party as their reason for leaving, warning that the crisis could hinder their chances of contesting in the 2027 general elections.
Adepoju, popularly known as Ibarapakan, said his decision was informed by the party's lingering leadership crisis.
“I am leaving the party because of the leadership crisis rocking the party,” he stated.
In a resignation letter dated May 5, 2026, addressed to the Chairman of Ward 5 in Oluyole Local Government, Engr. Akeem Olatunji attributed his exit to disagreements within the party’s national leadership.
Olatunji expressed appreciation to PDP leaders at all levels for the opportunity to serve under the party’s platform, while specifically thanking the state chairman, Hon. Dayo Ogungbenro, and vice chairman, Alhaji Wasiu Adeleke, for their support and guidance.
He also acknowledged Otunba Seye Famojuro, whom he described as his political benefactor, and said consultations were ongoing regarding his next political move.
Similarly, PDP governorship aspirant, Ambassador Olufemi Ajadi Oguntoyinbo, said his resignation was driven by his desire to pursue his ambition on another platform, citing the unresolved national crisis within the PDP.
Ajadi noted that the party’s lingering internal challenges could pose legal and political obstacles to his gubernatorial aspiration in the long run.
In a letter dated May 6, 2026, and addressed to the Oyo State PDP Chairman at the party secretariat in Molete, Ibadan, he said his decision followed “extensive consultations and careful reflection” on his political future and ideological direction.
The resignation letters, routed through various ward chairmen, mark a significant political setback for the PDP in Oyo State as realignments ahead of the 2027 elections gather momentum.
“I am writing to officially notify you of my decision to resign from the membership of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), effective immediately.”
“This decision comes after extensive consultations and careful reflection on my political direction, particularly in relation to the broader state and national vision of unity, progress, and sustainable leadership that I remain deeply committed to pursuing."
“I wish to express my profound appreciation to the national leadership of the PDP for the opportunity to pursue my political ambition under the party’s banner, as well as acknowledge the unwavering support, guidance, and cooperation I received from the state leadership and the ward chapter throughout my political journey within the party,” he added.
Describing politics as a vehicle for service rather than as a means of personal rivalry, Ajadi emphasised his continued commitment to democratic participation and nation-building.
“Politics, for me, has always been a calling to serve humanity, not a contest of egos,” he declared. “I remain grateful for the trust reposed in me and for the platform the PDP provided to engage constructively in nation-building and democratic participation.”
Political observers in Oyo State believe Ajadi’s resignation could trigger fresh political alignments ahead of future contests in the state, especially considering his influence among youths and grassroots supporters.
Although Ajadi did not disclose his next political destination in the letter, sources close to the politician hinted that consultations are ongoing with associates and stakeholders across different political platforms.
The development is expected to generate reactions within the Oyo State political landscape, particularly among PDP loyalists and opposition blocs, who are monitoring emerging alliances ahead of future elections.
In a conciliatory tone, Ajadi praised members of the PDP for their resilience and patriotism, while praying for the party's continued success in strengthening democracy in Nigeria.
“I salute the courage, resilience, and patriotism of all PDP members and pray that the party continues to play its vital role in strengthening Nigeria’s democracy and fostering good governance,” he stated.
He further noted that he was leaving the party with “no bitterness or regret,” describing his experience within the PDP as “fulfilling and memorable.
“As I take a new path in my political journey, I do so with no bitterness or regret, but with sincere gratitude to every member of the PDP family who contributed to making my experience both fulfilling and memorable."
