Dozens of PDP Members Defect to ADC in Osun, Cite Frustration with Ruling Party

The political landscape in Osun State witnessed another shift on Tuesday as dozens of members of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) in Ayedire Local Government formally announced their defection to the African Democratic Congress (ADC). They also pledged their support for the Omoluabi Progressives.

The new members, led by Otunba Architect Tunji Ogunrinu, immediate past Vice Chairman of Ayedire Local Council Development Area under the PDP, were received at the Oranmiyan House in Osogbo, the operational base of the Omoluabi Progressives.

The development marks yet another in a series of political realignments and defections to ADC within the state ahead of future elections, underscoring the acceptability of our party grassroots reach in Osun Politics.

*Reasons for Defection*

In his address, Otunba Ogunrinu explained that the decision to part ways with the PDP was not taken lightly but was borne out of dissatisfaction with what he described as the poor internal management of the ruling party and the failure to reward loyalty among its members.

He invited Alhaji Hon. Abdulganiyu Akeem, former councillor of Ward 3 in Ileogbo, to speak on behalf of the defectors emphasized that the people of Osun deserved better governance, declaring that it was time for citizens to “Arise and Shine” rather than continue what he termed “suffering and smiling.”

Abdulganiyu further called on ADC leaders and the Omoluabi Progressives to ensure that the voices and interests of young people were not sidelined in the state’s political arrangements.

Several grassroots leaders also spoke at the event, highlighting their frustrations with PDP and their hopes for a better political home in ADC.

The Chairman of Idi Ogun Unit in Ileogbo 2 alleged that favoritism and sentiments had become entrenched in PDP politics, a development he said was discouraging for party members at the ward and unit levels. He pledged that his structure would now work wholeheartedly for ADC.

Similarly, Prince Adetunji, popularly known as COSMO, criticized the PDP for neglecting grassroots mobilizers despite their consistent support. Referring specifically to his experience in Ward 9, Kuta, he argued that the lack of recognition for loyal party men had drained enthusiasm in Ayedire Local Government. According to him, “PDP is dead in Ayedire.”

Other voices included Comrade Agbabiaka from Olupona and Toyosi from Kuta, who both publicly severed ties with PDP, declaring that their admiration for the leadership style and achievements of former Governor Rauf Aregbesola influenced their decision to embrace ADC.

Several party agents who had worked for PDP during the last gubernatorial election also expressed disappointment with what they described as the “lack of a human face” in the present government, insisting that their efforts had not translated into meaningful recognition or benefits.

The defection exercise was moderated by Hon. Gbenga Ogunkanmi, a former member of the Osun State House of Assembly. Ogunkanmi vouched for the political weight and grassroots strength of the defectors, describing them as tested mobilizers who could add value to their new party.

In his view, their entrance into ADC signaled a growing discontent within the ruling PDP and demonstrated the readiness of opposition forces to consolidate ahead of the next electoral cycle.

Omoluabi Progressives React

Welcoming the new members, Alhaji Issa Adesiji Azeez, Chairman of the Omoluabi Progressives, commended their courage and assured them of full integration into ADC’s structures.

He emphasized that the party stands for inclusiveness and participatory democracy, noting that politics should be about service rather than exclusion. Azeez further encouraged all members to take the ongoing voters registration process seriously, stressing that electoral power remains the ultimate tool for political change.

This development provides a boost for the ADC Party in Ayedire Local Govt and it’s surrounding communities, where PDP had previously enjoyed significant support.

Signed :

Abosede Busayo Oluwaseun
Publicity and Organizing Secretary
Omoluabi Progressives
Tue. 19th of August, 2025.