The ongoing crisis within the Peoples Democratic Party deepened on Thursday as several prominent loyalists and associates of Seyi Makinde announced their decision to leave the party.
The PDP has faced persistent internal disputes in recent months, with one faction reportedly aligned with Governor Makinde and another loyal to Nyesom Wike.
Reports indicate that a number of influential figures linked to the Oyo governor resigned from the party at different locations across the state on Thursday.
Although speculation suggests many of them may be heading to the Allied Peoples Movement, none of the defectors officially confirmed the political platform they intend to join.
Among those who reportedly dumped the PDP are governorship aspirant Olufemi Oguntoyinbo, the governor’s Special Adviser on Security Fatai Owoseni, and Oluyole Local Government Chairman Akeem Olatunji.
Others include Deputy Speaker of the Oyo State House of Assembly Abiodun Fadeyi, House of Representatives member Anthony Adepoju representing Ibarapa North/Ibarapa Central Federal Constituency, Abass Adigun representing Ibadan North East/Ibadan South East Federal Constituency, and Adedeji Olajide representing Ibadan North West/Ibadan South West Federal Constituency.
Speaking on the development, Fadeyi confirmed his exit from the PDP, attributing the move to the lingering internal crisis within the party.
He said:
“Yes, I am leaving the party. The reason is the same as others have stated — the internal crisis within the PDP.”
Olatunji also blamed the party’s internal divisions for his decision to resign, accusing Wike of worsening tensions within the PDP.
According to him:
“It is true. The crisis within the party forced this decision. Wike has destabilized the PDP and denied the party peace. We want our people to continue enjoying good governance.”
As of Thursday evening, more loyalists of Governor Makinde were reportedly preparing to leave the PDP ahead of the 2027 general elections.