Ogun PDP knocks ex-chair

The Ogun State chapter of the People’s Democratic Party has dismissed claims by its former chairman, Sikirulai Ogundele, that the party has collapsed, describing his remarks as a lamentation over dwindling political relevance.

The Ogun PDP, in a statement by its Publicity Secretary, Kayode Adebayo, on Saturday, also described the choice of Oladipupo Adebutu as its governorship candidate for the 2027 election as a strategic step to return the party to power in the state.

Ogundele had reportedly described the PDP as a collapsed and burning house during an engagement in Ilaro, while declaring that the controversy surrounding the indigeneity of the Senator representing Ogun West, Olamilekan Adeola, had been settled.

Adebayo stated that Ogundele’s comments were unbecoming of a former party chairman, alleging that his past leadership style contributed to internal crises within the state chapter.

“This is not the statement of a statesman; it is the lamentation of a man whose political relevance has dwindled and who must now shout from the desert to be heard,” Adebayo said.

He alleged that under Ogundele’s leadership, party congresses became contentious and reconciliation efforts failed, contributing to the party’s electoral setbacks.

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“History cannot be rewritten by a frustrated man,” Adebayo said, describing comparisons between Adeola and former Ogun governors such as Olusegun Osoba and Gbenga Daniel as inappropriate.

He also defended Adebutu’s political involvement, stating that an Ogun indigene investing personal resources in public service demonstrated a commitment to state development.

Adebayo maintained that the party remained united following the exit of what he termed transactional leaders.

He added that the Ogun PDP was organized and repositioned to contest the 2027 general elections under its state leadership.

“The Ogun PDP is well organized and rejigged for success,” Adebayo stated.