A faction of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Osun State, led by former Governor Olagunsoye Oyinlola, has endorsed the governorship candidate of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Bola Oyebamiji, ahead of Saturday’s governorship election.
The endorsement was announced during a gathering in Osogbo attended by key members of the faction, including former Secretary to the State Government, Fatai Akinbade, and former PDP National Vice Chairman (South-West), Alhaji Tajudeen Oladipo.
Speaking at the event, Oyinlola said the group’s decision was informed by concerns over what it described as a lack of inclusiveness in the administration of Governor Ademola Adeleke.
According to him, the PDP was founded on the principles of consultation, participation and collective responsibility, stressing that governments must carry stakeholders along to achieve sustainable success.
Oyinlola, however, clarified that the faction had not defected from the PDP, insisting that its members remained loyal to the party while exercising their democratic right to support a candidate they believe can advance the interests of Osun State.
“We remain PDP members. We are not here to announce our defection from the PDP. Rather, we are exercising our conscience as stakeholders who have served this state and who believe that, at this particular moment, Osun State requires a different direction,” he said.
The former governor urged Oyebamiji to prioritise inclusive governance, economic growth, infrastructure development, education, healthcare, agriculture and youth empowerment if elected.
Akinbade and Oladipo also appealed to PDP supporters in the state to vote for the APC candidate, maintaining that their decision was based on the overall interest of Osun State.
Reacting to the endorsement, Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Adegboyega Oyetola, described Oyinlola as a respected political figure whose support would further strengthen the APC’s chances in the election.
Oyebamiji expressed confidence in victory, attributing his optimism to the support received from various groups and communities across the state. He also pledged to run an inclusive administration if elected governor.
The endorsement highlights growing political realignments within Osun State as parties intensify campaigns ahead of the governorship election.
