Saki, Oyo State – October 20, 2025 – In a resounding declaration of solidarity and a fierce rebuke of recent political defections, the Oke-Ogun PDP Forum has issued a comprehensive statement condemning a small group of former party loyalists who have abandoned the People's Democratic Party (PDP) for the All Progressives Congress (APC). Describing the defections as a blatant display of "sheer opportunism, inconsistency, and political desperation," the forum has categorically distanced itself and the broader PDP family in the Oke-Ogun region from what it terms "acts of betrayal." This development comes at a time when Oyo State's political landscape is heating up ahead of future elections, with Governor Seyi Makinde's administration facing tests of loyalty from within its ranks.
The forum's statement, released during a high-profile press briefing in Saki, the geopolitical heart of Oke-Ogun, paints a vivid picture of ingratitude and self-interest among the defectors. "These individuals, who once benefitted immensely from Governor Makinde’s magnanimity, are now attempting to undermine the same administration that rescued them from political obscurity," the statement reads. It emphasizes that the defectors' decision to jump ship was "driven by personal interest rather than ideology," highlighting a profound "lack of principle and gratitude." Led by Senator Yunus Akintunde Agboola, the group of defectors—comprising a handful of serving and former local government chairmen, vice chairmen, and stakeholders—publicly announced their move to the APC last week, citing vague grievances about party leadership. However, the forum dismisses these claims as fabricated excuses, insisting that the true motive is a desperate bid for survival in a changing political tide.
Crucially, the Oke-Ogun PDP Forum has moved to shatter any "false impressions being circulated" by asserting that the "overwhelming majority" of serving and former council chairmen, vice chairmen, and party stakeholders across the region's nine local government areas remain "steadfastly within the PDP and firmly aligned with Governor Makinde’s political philosophy." Only a "handful of self-serving individuals" have chosen to follow Senator Agboola’s "retrogressive move," the forum clarified. "The forum categorically dissociates itself and the PDP family in Oke-Ogun from such acts of betrayal and inconsistency," it declared, urging party members to view the defections not as a mass exodus but as isolated incidents of personal opportunism.
At the core of the forum's defense is a glowing tribute to Governor Makinde's transformative leadership in Oke-Ogun, a region long marginalized in Oyo State's development agenda. The statement meticulously enumerates his "unprecedented contributions," positioning them as irrefutable evidence of the governor's commitment to equity and progress. Among the highlights:
Educational Advancements: The upgrade of The Polytechnic, Saki, to a full-fledged Higher National Diploma (HND)-awarding institution, empowering thousands of youths with quality technical education. Additionally, the establishment of the Ladoke Akintola University of Technology (LAUTECH) Campus in Iseyin has brought higher education closer to remote communities, reducing migration for studies.
Administrative Relocations: The strategic relocation of the Oyo State Afforestation, Reforestation and Climate Change Agency (OYSADEP) headquarters to Saki, injecting economic vitality into the area through job creation and environmental projects.
Massive Infrastructure Projects: A suite of ongoing and completed major road networks that have revolutionized connectivity and commerce. These include the Saki–Ogbooro–Igboho Road, Iseyin–Saki Road, Iseyin–Ogbomoso Road, Iseyin–Oyo Road, and the flagship Iseyin–Ibadan Road. These arteries have slashed travel times, boosted agricultural exports, and linked Oke-Ogun more seamlessly to Ibadan, the state capital.
Employment and Appointments: The creation of "massive employment opportunities" through strategic initiatives, coupled with high-level political appointments for Oke-Ogun indigenes, ensuring their voices are heard at the highest levels of governance.
Social Investments and Traditions: Sustained infrastructural renewal programs, alongside social investment schemes that have touched lives through healthcare, education, and poverty alleviation. A unique hallmark is the annual relocation of the seat of government to Saki from December 24 to 27 for four consecutive years—a symbolic gesture of inclusivity that has fostered a sense of ownership among residents.
"These landmark achievements are clear testaments to the governor’s fairness, vision, and dedication to balanced regional development," the forum proclaimed, arguing that no amount of defector propaganda can erase this legacy.
In a direct call to action, the forum implored members of the public to "disregard the ongoing falsehood and political grandstanding from the camps of those who recently left the party." It described their "desperation to seek political relevance" as unworthy of attention, labeling recent gatherings in Saki and Ogbooro as "nothing more than hollow exercises designed to attract attention and curry favour within their new political host." The statement further urged "the public and all PDP supporters across Oyo State to disregard the antics and propaganda of the defectors, who are merely seeking political survival and relevance."
Reaffirming the party's resilience, the forum declared: "The PDP in Oke-Ogun remains solid, united, and focused under the guidance of Governor Seyi Makinde." While acknowledging that "political realignments are a normal feature of democracy," it stressed that "loyalty, consistency, and integrity remain the true hallmarks of credible leadership." A subtle warning was issued to the defectors: "Those who have chosen the path of defection will, in due course, test the strength and wisdom of their decisions when the political tide turns and party congresses are held." This hints at upcoming PDP primaries where loyalties will be rigorously vetted.
Looking ahead, the Oke-Ogun PDP Forum resolved to prioritize "unity, discipline, and sustained grassroots engagement" in preparation for future political contests. Its members pledged "unwavering commitment to the ideals of transparency, good governance, and democratic integrity that define the Omituntun administration"—a nod to Makinde's "light of continuous progress" mantra. The forum concluded by reiterating its collective loyalty to Governor Makinde and the PDP, vowing to mobilize voters and counter any further destabilization efforts.
This statement has already reverberated across Oyo State, with PDP chieftains in Ibadan echoing the forum's sentiments and planning solidarity rallies. Analysts see it as a masterstroke in damage control, reinforcing Makinde's image as a unifier while exposing the defectors' vulnerabilities. As Oke-Ogun—home to over 1.5 million residents and a PDP stronghold—gears up for the 2027 elections, this episode underscores the high stakes of loyalty in Nigerian politics. For now, the forum's message is clear: Betrayal will not dim the Omituntun light.
