Lawmakers elected under the platform of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Osun State have publicly reaffirmed their loyalty to Governor Ademola Adeleke, while strongly condemning the defection of one of their colleagues to the All Progressives Congress (APC).
The announcement came during a press conference held at the Osun State House of Assembly complex in Osogbo, where the PDP legislators described the defection as “a betrayal of the people’s mandate” and vowed to continue working closely with Governor Adeleke to deliver the party’s promises to the citizens.
Speaking on behalf of the group, the Majority Leader of the House, Hon. Akinyode Abidemi, said the PDP caucus remained solidly united and would not be swayed by what he termed “the selfish ambitions” of a few individuals. He emphasized that the overwhelming majority of PDP lawmakers are committed to the ideals of good governance, transparency, and development as championed by Governor Adeleke’s administration.
“We are here today to reassure the good people of Osun State that the PDP House of Assembly members are firmly behind our amiable leader, His Excellency Senator Ademola Adeleke,” Abidemi stated. “The defection of one lawmaker does not reflect the collective resolve of the Assembly. We remain steadfast, loyal, and resolute in supporting the governor as he continues to transform our dear state.”
The defection, which occurred earlier this week, saw Hon. Adebayo Afolabi, representing Ifelodun State Constituency, announce his move to the APC, citing “internal party disagreements” and a desire to “better serve his constituents.” However, PDP legislators and party officials have dismissed his claims, insisting that his decision was driven purely by personal interests rather than any genuine ideological differences.
According to Hon. Abidemi, “Any representative who defects against the will of his constituents and the mandate under which he was elected betrays the trust placed in him. The people of Ifelodun voted PDP, not APC. We urge them to hold their representative accountable.”
Other lawmakers who spoke during the press conference also highlighted the achievements of Governor Adeleke in less than two years in office, including infrastructural projects, civil service reforms, improved workers’ welfare, and a renewed focus on education and healthcare.
Hon. Titi Adeoye, representing Ife North, said, “Governor Adeleke has shown true leadership by prioritizing the welfare of the people over personal gains. His people-centered policies have touched every sector. We are proud to be associated with his administration, and we will not allow distractions to derail the progress we are making.”
Similarly, Hon. Muyiwa Lawal, representing Ede South, Adeleke’s home constituency, warned against what he called “sponsored distractions” aimed at destabilizing the PDP’s firm grip on Osun politics. He noted that the APC’s recent efforts to lure PDP members were a clear sign of the opposition party’s desperation.
“The APC is grasping at straws,” Lawal remarked. “They see the positive change in Osun State under Governor Adeleke, and they are worried. Their only strategy now is to sow division, but they will fail. Osun people know who is truly working for them.”
Meanwhile, the PDP in Osun State has also issued a separate statement condemning Hon. Afolabi’s defection and reiterating its confidence in the loyalty and patriotism of its elected officials. The party leadership assured the public that necessary legal and political steps would be taken to address the defection, including the possibility of declaring Afolabi’s seat vacant should conditions permit.
In response to the political drama, aides to Governor Adeleke have downplayed the significance of the defection, insisting that it will not impact the administration’s focus or momentum.
Speaking to journalists, the governor’s spokesperson, Mallam Olawale Rasheed, said, “Governor Adeleke remains committed to serving the people of Osun State without distraction. The defection of one lawmaker is inconsequential compared to the groundswell of support the governor enjoys across the state. Our agenda of development, accountability, and progress is on course.”
As the political atmosphere in Osun continues to heat up ahead of future elections, the reaffirmation of loyalty by the PDP lawmakers is seen as a major boost for Governor Adeleke, who has consistently emphasized unity within the party as key to sustaining the administration’s successes.
Political analysts suggest that while defections are not uncommon in Nigerian politics, the real test lies in how the electorate reacts to perceived betrayals of mandate and trust. For now, the message from Osun PDP lawmakers is loud and clear: Governor Adeleke has their unwavering support, and they remain committed to delivering on the promises made to the people.
