Oyo PDP Crisis Deepens as Prominent Leaders Defect to ADC

Oyo PDP Crisis Deepens as Prominent Leaders Defect to ADC

Kingsley Ohens reporting For Urbanscoopnews

The internal crisis rocking the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Oyo State escalated over the weekend, following the defection of several prominent party figures to the African Democratic Congress (ADC), led by former governorship aspirant and human rights lawyer, Chief Niyi Aborisade.

Aborisade formally announced his defection at a gathering of party supporters and ADC officials in Yemetu, Ibadan, citing prolonged internal divisions, factionalism, and the absence of internal democracy within the PDP as key reasons for the move.

According to him, the persistent leadership disputes within the PDP have significantly weakened the party’s cohesion and capacity to function as a viable opposition force in the state.

“I have become a member of the African Democratic Congress after careful observation of the challenges confronting the PDP. Given the deep divisions and unresolved factional crises, it has become increasingly difficult for the party to present a credible candidate in future elections,” Aborisade said.

The British-trained human rights lawyer noted that despite years of commitment, personal sacrifice, and financial investment by loyal party members, efforts to reconcile warring factions within the PDP had repeatedly failed. He attributed this to what he described as the unwillingness of key stakeholders to embrace dialogue and compromise.

“These unresolved crises continue to weaken the party, and internal democracy is under serious threat within the PDP. Under such circumstances, we have no option but to move forward,” he added.

Aborisade disclosed that he defected alongside a large number of supporters drawn from all 33 local government areas of Oyo State, many of whom are influential grassroots leaders within the PDP. He explained that the collective decision to leave the party was based on a shared conviction that the PDP no longer offers a credible or viable political platform.

“They have read the signs of the times and understand that the PDP can no longer provide a clear path forward,” he said.

Describing the ADC as a party anchored on internal democracy, fairness, and equity, Aborisade said the platform guarantees a level playing field for all aspirants. He emphasized that the party does not impose candidates and is committed to conducting free, fair, and credible internal elections.

“This is not about me alone. It is about providing a platform where everyone can contest freely and exercise their fundamental rights. If I am not chosen, I am ready to work with whoever emerges. That is the spirit of the ADC,” he stated.

The latest wave of defections adds to the growing uncertainty within the Oyo State PDP, raising questions about the party’s unity and electoral prospects ahead of future polls, while positioning the ADC as a potential beneficiary of the unfolding political realignment in the state.