Oluwole Oke, the representative of Oriade/Obokun in the House of Representatives, has officially announced his resignation from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), citing several key reasons for his decision. Speaking on Rave FM in Osogbo, Oke explained that his departure was driven by a need to support a Yoruba President and frustrations over the neglect of infrastructure in his constituency by the current administration in Osun State.
Oke, who had been a part of PDP since its formation, highlighted that after extensive consultations with his constituents and personal reflections, it became clear that leaving the party was the best course of action. He expressed dissatisfaction with the inability to influence change at both the state and national levels, particularly in improving the living conditions of his constituents. “How long will the national government continue to feed their enemy to their own detriment?” Oke questioned, underscoring his frustration with the state’s failure to address critical infrastructure needs.
A key factor in Oke’s resignation was his belief in the importance of supporting President Bola Tinubu, whom he described as a father figure, uncle, and brother. Oke also pointed to the establishment of a Federal University in Iragbiji, close to his local government, as an example of the opportunities that a supportive national government can bring to his people. He expressed disappointment that, despite his efforts to push for development, his proposals, such as the establishment of a Federal College of Agriculture in Ijebu-Jesa, were not supported.
The lawmaker also mentioned the systemic neglect of his constituency under Governor Ademola Adeleke’s administration, citing poor road conditions and the lack of basic amenities such as potable water. “For almost three years now, the state government has failed to address the infrastructural decay in Obokun/Oriade,” Oke lamented, adding that his repeated requests for attention to these issues had been ignored.
Reflecting on his political journey, Oke emphasized that his involvement in PDP was not about personal gain. “I didn’t come into politics in penury. My constituency has traditionally been the home of the progressives, and I worked hard to secure victories for the party,” he stated. Oke rejected claims that he was abandoning the party for selfish reasons, stressing that his decision was motivated by a desire to serve his people and secure development for his region.
Despite the controversy surrounding his resignation, Oke remains confident in the support of his constituents, predicting a strong showing in future elections. “PDP will struggle to get 500 votes out of nearly 9,000 in Esa-Oke,” he confidently declared, signaling that his political future is secure, even outside the PDP.
As Oke moves forward, his resignation marks a significant shift in the political landscape of Osun State, raising questions about the future of PDP in the region and the potential for greater cooperation between the state and federal governments under the leadership of the APC.
Comments