The Forum of Ex-Local Government Chairmen, Vice Chairmen, and Former Local Party Chairmen under the platform of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Oke-Ogun Zone, Oyo State, has condemned in strong terms the recent defection of some former political officeholders from the party, describing their action as an act of betrayal, opportunism, and political desperation
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In a communiqué issued after their meeting, the Forum said the defectors’ decision to leave the PDP despite Governor Seyi Makinde’s numerous developmental achievements in Oke-Ogun was disappointing and self-serving.
According to the Forum, Governor Makinde’s administration has demonstrated unparalleled commitment to equitable governance through landmark infrastructural and social projects across the Oke-Ogun axis. These include the Saki–Ogbooro–Igboho, Iseyin–Saki, Iseyin–Oyo, Iseyin–Ogbomoso, and Iseyin–Ibadan roads, as well as consistent employment opportunities and political appointments for Oke-Ogun indigenes.
Other accomplishments cited include the governor’s consistent infrastructural renewal, social investment programmes, and the symbolic annual relocation of the seat of government to Oke-Ogun for four consecutive years — all of which, the Forum noted, are enduring testimonies of Governor Makinde’s fairness and inclusivity.
The Forum called on the public and PDP supporters across the state to disregard what it described as the “political grandstanding and propaganda” of the defectors, noting that their recent gatherings in Saki and Ogbooro were hollow and self-serving.
“Their actions are nothing but desperate attempts to attract attention and curry favour in their new political enclave. The PDP in Oke-Ogun remains solid, united, and focused under the guidance of Governor Seyi Makinde,” the communiqué stated.
Reaffirming their dedication to party unity, the Forum pledged to intensify grassroots mobilization and maintain discipline within the PDP structure across Oke-Ogun’s ten local government areas.
“We will continue to mobilize massive support for the PDP and the Makinde administration. Our loyalty is not transactional but rooted in shared values of good governance, transparency, and equity,” the Forum declared.
The statement concluded with a renewed commitment to strengthening the PDP’s base and supporting Governor Makinde’s vision for a more prosperous and inclusive Oyo State.
Among the signatories to the communiqué were Alhaji Sulaimon Santana (Former Chairman, Irepo LG); Hon. Raheem Ajibola FM (Former LCDA Chairman, Iseyin); Hon. Tajudeen Olori (Former LCDA Chairman, Iwajowa); Engr. Mudasir Eruobodo (Former Chairman, Saki West); Azeez Jimoh Olaniyi (Former Vice Chairman, Itesiwaju); Hon. Gbenga Akinola (Chairman, Saki West); Hon. Kayode Ige (Former Caretaker Chairman, Kajola); and Alhaji Waheed Oluwakemi (Former PDP Senatorial Chairman, Oyo North), among others representing the Oke-Ogun zone.
