Osun PDP Woos Aregbesola’s Loyalists Following Exit from APC

The Osun State chapter of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has extended an open invitation to supporters of former Governor Rauf Aregbesola to join its ranks, following their decision to sever ties with the All Progressives Congress (APC).

The appeal comes on the heels of an announcement by the Omoluabi Progressives, a political group loyal to Aregbesola, confirming its formal exit from the APC.

The group cited alleged marginalization within the party as its reason for the move.

In response to the development, the Osun APC dismissed the exit as inconsequential, describing it as “good riddance.” The party noted that the group had effectively distanced itself since 2022.

However, speaking in Osogbo on Tuesday, the PDP Director of Media and Publicity in Osun State, Oladele Bamiji, described Aregbesola as a major political player who remains relevant in the state’s political dynamics.

“Former Governor Rauf Aregbesola is a significant figure in Osun politics. As a two-term governor, it is unreasonable to dismiss his influence,” Bamiji said.

He stated that the PDP remains open to “genuine progressives” seeking a political platform rooted in inclusivity and good governance, while also acknowledging the strategic complexities of political realignment.

“We don’t know all the details of his reported exit from the APC. Politics is not straightforward mathematics—moves are often made to achieve other ends,” he noted.

While the PDP has not received an official defection, Bamiji stressed the party’s readiness to welcome Aregbesola’s supporters, stating that “politics is a game of numbers,” and that the PDP remains the dominant force in the state, buoyed by the popularity of Governor Ademola Adeleke.

Meanwhile, a prominent member of Omoluabi Progressives, speaking anonymously, downplayed speculation that the group had made a decision on its next political move.

“It is still a bird kept inside a calabash. It can’t be known until it is revealed. People should not bother about it. We are coming out in a solid way,” the source said.

The latest developments signal ongoing shifts in Osun State’s political landscape, with both the APC and PDP jostling for strategic advantage ahead of future contests.