Eight of the nine members of the Osun State Caucus in the House of Representatives elected under the platform of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) on Friday reaffirmed their unwavering loyalty to the party and Governor Ademola Adeleke.
This affirmation came barely 48 hours after the defection of Hon. Oluwole Oke to the All Progressives Congress (APC), following his resignation from the PDP. His defection had sparked speculation that other members of the caucus were planning to follow him.
The lawmakers include: Chairman, House Committee on Public Accounts, Rep. Bamidele Salam; Hon. Ajilesoro Taofeek; Hon. Mudashiru Alani; Hon. Akanni Ademola; Hon. Omirin Olusanya; Hon. Adewale Adebayo; Hon. Adetunji Olusoji; and Hon. Oladebo Omoleye.
In a statement jointly issued and signed by the eight lawmakers, they asserted that Hon. Oke’s defection had long been anticipated due to his open and consistent display of disloyalty, disrespect, and public attacks on the party and the government of Senator Adeleke.
Describing Hon. Oke’s resignation from the PDP as a mark of ingratitude to the party that had given him a platform for over 20 years of political relevance, the Osun Reps’ members urged him to refrain from making statements laden with falsehood and malice in a bid to court sympathy from his new political allies.
“The defection of our colleague, Hon. Wole Oke, is a personal decision that holds no bearing on the stability or cohesion of the PDP in Osun.
“The remaining eight members of the Caucus remain fully committed to the ideals and leadership of the party.”
The Caucus further praised Governor Adeleke for his “forthright, competent, and equitable” leadership since assuming office, stating that his administration has ensured the fair distribution of democratic dividends across all parts of Osun State.
“The achievements of Governor Adeleke are visible across all sectors — education, healthcare, infrastructure, and social welfare.
“His governance style continues to inspire confidence within the party and among the people of Osun,” the lawmakers added.
Acknowledging the Governor’s role as the undisputed leader of the party in the state, the lawmakers credited his inclusive approach for the ongoing unity and strength of the PDP in Osun.
They pledged their continued support for his administration at both state and federal levels.
ALSO READ: Akpabio leads Tinubu’s delegation to Vatican for Pope Francis’ burial
Despite Hon. Oke’s exit, the PDP lawmakers assured constituents that their collective mandate remains intact and that they remain undeterred in their commitment to delivering on their legislative responsibilities and party obligations.
The Caucus also called on party faithful across the state to remain steadfast and focused, urging them not to be swayed by political distractions.
They affirmed that the PDP remains the most viable platform for sustainable development in Osun.
As the political landscape continues to evolve in anticipation of future elections, the Osun PDP Caucus reiterated its readiness to defend the party’s legacy and ensure that the people of Osun continue to benefit from democratic governance under PDP leadership.
ALSO READ TOP STORIES FROM NIGERIAN TRIBUNE