BREAKING: PDP Bleeds in Oriade: Commissioner Loses 14 Party Leaders to Wole Oke in Home Ward

In a significant political shift, 14 grassroots leaders, including prominent women and youth coordinators from Ward 11, covering Ijeda and Iloko in Oriade Local Government Area of Osun State, have resigned from the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) and pledged allegiance to Hon. Wole Oke’s growing political camp in the All Progressives Congress (APC).

The mass resignation, formalized in a jointly signed letter, marks a deepening crack within the PDP structure in Oriade, as key mobilizers abandon the party over what they describe as years of marginalization, poor internal democracy, and a lack of direction. Their defection is also seen as a major boost to Wole Oke’s political momentum within the APC, following his recent and controversial departure from the PDP.

“We are grateful for the opportunities and experiences we had as PDP members,” the group stated, “but the party no longer reflects our values or aspirations. We believe in Hon. Wole Oke’s leadership and vision, and we are proud to join him in the APC.”

Party insiders confirm that the defectors have long expressed frustrations over being sidelined in decision-making and local party affairs. Their move is widely seen as a well-organized realignment with Oke, who is positioning himself as a formidable grassroots force ahead of upcoming elections.

This defection strikes a particularly heavy blow to Prince Bayo Ogungbangbe, Osun State Commissioner for Cooperatives and Empowerment, as it comes from his own ward and stronghold. Political watchers say the development raises serious questions about his influence and relevance within the party.

“If he has shame, he should resign immediately,” a party youth leader in Oriade stated. “And if he doesn’t, the Governor should relieve him of his duties without delay. This kind of embarrassment at home is a loud verdict.”

Political observers suggest this development could accelerate a larger wave of defections from the PDP in Oriade, as discontent simmers across other wards. With Wole Oke consolidating his base in the APC, the PDP’s stronghold in the region now appears increasingly fragile.

As of the time of this report, the Osun State chapter of the PDP has not issued an official response to the resignation or the growing influence of Wole Oke in Oriade politics.