BREAKING: Fresh Crack in Osun PDP: Ward Chairman Lawal Sarafa Follows Hon. Oke Out the Door

The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Osun State is grappling with a deepening internal crisis following the high-profile resignation of Hon. Oluwole Oke, the veteran lawmaker representing Obokun/Oriade Federal Constituency in the House of Representatives.

Oke officially quit the PDP after what he described as “extensive consultations” with political allies, friends, and family. In a resignation letter dated April 16, 2025, addressed to the party’s Ward 7 Chairman in Obokun Local Government Area, Oke cited leadership failures at both the national and state levels and the alleged marginalization of his constituents by the Osun State government.

“The PDP has degenerated into a toxic space, far removed from its founding values,” he stated, noting that his defection was aimed at drawing federal attention to the plight of his constituency.

Oke’s exit has sparked a ripple effect across the party’s structure in Osun. On Thursday, Lawal Sarafa, Chairman of Ward 09 in Esa-Odo, announced his resignation from the PDP, declaring allegiance to Oke. “I cannot remain in the party after my leader’s exit,” Sarafa said, hinting at broader discontent among the party’s grassroots.

Sarafa’s move adds fuel to the growing speculation that more defections are imminent. Oke had earlier urged his loyalists, including elected officials and appointees, to remain calm and await further instructions as he finalizes his switch to the All Progressives Congress (APC).

“Yes, I have resigned from the PDP along with my supporters at all levels, after wide consultations,” Oke affirmed. He emphasized that his decision was not driven by personal ambition but by “a conscientious response to the prevailing realities” within the PDP.

The PDP’s leadership is reportedly scrambling to contain the fallout, holding emergency meetings and offering incentives to prevent a mass exodus. However, Oke’s allies appear undeterred.

Party insiders suggest that Oke’s departure stems from a long-brewing rift with Governor Ademola Adeleke, rooted in the marginalization of Oke’s political base and perceived exclusion from key decisions.

As the situation evolves, political observers warn that the PDP’s stability in Osun may be further tested in the coming weeks, especially with the 2026 elections looming.

Oke, a former Chairman of the House Committee on Judiciary and the current Chair of the House Committee on Foreign Affairs, remains a formidable force in Osun politics. His departure marks a major inflection point for the PDP in the state.