Several prominent members of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Oyo State have resigned from the party, joining the Allied Peoples Movement (APM) in a wave of defections linked to Governor Seyi Makinde's political network. Among those who have left are Shina Peller, former member representing Iseyin/Iwajowa/Itesiwaju/Kajola, and current lawmaker Adedeji Olajide, who represents Ibadan North-West/South-West. Both had been consensus candidates for senatorial positions under Makinde's PDP faction in the 2027 elections. Peller announced his resignation on Wednesday, citing a leadership vacuum and what he described as a "legal cul-de-sac" within the PDP. Olajide also cited the party's internal crisis as his reason for leaving.
Olufemi Ajadi, consensus candidate for Oyo Central Senatorial District, resigned from the PDP on May 6, stating that unresolved national-level crises in the party could create legal hurdles for his political ambitions. The movement extends beyond aspirants, with members of the Oyo State House of Assembly also defecting. The majority leader, Onaolapo Sanjo Adedoyin, representing Ogbomoso South, has joined the APM. Reports indicate that multiple other lawmakers within the PDP-dominated assembly have also resigned in recent days. The defections are seen as part of a coordinated shift by Makinde loyalists, possibly in anticipation of the May 9 deadline set by new electoral guidelines requiring gubernatorial candidates to be publicly declared.
Speculation has grown that Governor Makinde may back Bimbo Adekanmbi as his successor. Adekanmbi, a former commissioner under APC Governor Abiola Ajimobi, was later appointed by Makinde to lead the committee upgrading Ladoke Akintola Airport in Ibadan. Makinde's media aide, Suleimon Olanrewaju, denied the speculation, stating the governor is still consulting and will announce his choice at the appropriate time.
Shina Peller and Olufemi Ajadi resigned from the PDP citing legal risks, yet both now back a party without electoral track record. Governor Makinde's allies are moving to APM before May 9, but he has not named a successor, leaving their new allegiance in limbo. If the governor waits past May 9 to declare a candidate, their defections may not protect his influence. The timing exposes a gap between tactical moves and official endorsement.
Editorial note: AI-assisted opinion, not established fact. Full disclaimer →
